🌿 Succession planting is a great way to extend the blooming season of nasturtiums, a low-maintenance and versatile annual flower that can be grown in a variety of conditions. To start a new batch of nasturtiums, begin by preparing the soil by loosening it to a depth of about 8-10 inches and adding a balanced fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Sow the nasturtium seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart in late spring to early summer, when the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F. Keep the soil consistently moist during the first few weeks after sowing, but make sure not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. As the seedlings emerge, thin them out to about 6-8 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and sunlight penetration. Once the nasturtiums are about 6-8 inches tall, you can start to harvest the flowers, which can be used as a garnish or added to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes for a burst of color and flavor. To ensure a continuous supply of nasturtiums, repeat the process every 2-3 weeks by sowing new seeds in the same spot, and also by dividing and transplanting the mature plants to new locations, where they can establish themselves and start producing new blooms. By following this succession planting strategy, you can enjoy a continuous display of nasturtiums throughout the growing season, adding a touch of whimsy and charm to your garden or indoor space.

How to Succession Planting for Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a popular annual flower that can add a pop of color and vibrancy to any garden. They are easy to grow, nutritious to eat, and come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. One of the best ways to enjoy nasturtiums is by succession planting, which involves planting small batches of seeds every 1-2 weeks to ensure a continuous supply of flowers throughout the growing season. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of succession planting for nasturtiums, how to prepare for the process, and how to implement it successfully.

Benefits of Succession Planting for Nasturtiums

Succession planting for nasturtiums offers several benefits, including:

Extended blooming period: By planting small batches of seeds every 1-2 weeks, you can extend the blooming period of your nasturtiums, which typically lasts around 6-8 weeks.
Increased yields: Succession planting allows for multiple harvests, increasing the overall yield of your nasturtium crop.
Reduced seed loss: By planting small batches of seeds, you can reduce the risk of seed loss due to weather conditions, pests, or other factors.
Improved garden management: Succession planting helps to manage your garden more efficiently, as you can plant new seeds while the previous batch is still blooming.

Preparing for Succession Planting

Before you start succession planting, make sure you have the following materials and information:

Seeds: Choose a high-quality nasturtium seed variety that is suitable for your climate and growing conditions.
Soil: Nasturtiums prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
Containers or garden bed: You can succession plant in containers or directly in a garden bed.
Weather conditions: Choose a time when the weather is favorable for planting, usually during the spring or fall.
Record keeping: Keep a record of your planting dates, seed quantities, and harvest yields to help you track the success of your succession planting program.

Succession Planting Schedule

The ideal succession planting schedule for nasturtiums depends on your climate, location, and desired blooming period. Here is a general schedule:

Week 1-2: Plant the first batch of nasturtium seeds about 1-2 weeks before the last frost date in your area.
Week 3-4: Plant the second batch of nasturtium seeds about 1-2 weeks after the first batch has germinated and the weather has warmed up.
Week 5-6: Plant the third batch of nasturtium seeds about 1-2 weeks after the second batch has germinated and the weather has warmed up.
Week 7-8: Plant the final batch of nasturtium seeds about 1-2 weeks before the first frost date in your area.

Planting Succession Nasturtiums

To plant succession nasturtiums, follow these steps:

Prepare the soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches and mix in a 2-inch layer of compost or well-rotted manure.
Sow the seeds: Plant the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart in rows that are 12-18 inches apart.
Water the seeds: Water the seeds gently but thoroughly.
Thin the seedlings: Once the seedlings have 2-3 sets of leaves, thin them out to 6-8 inches apart.
Fertilize the seedlings: Feed the seedlings with a balanced fertilizer once a month.
Watch for pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases that can affect nasturtiums, such as aphids, whiteflies, and powdery mildew.

Tips and Variations

Here are some additional tips and variations to consider when succession planting nasturtiums:

Use a calendar: Keep a calendar to track your planting dates and harvest yields.
Grow nasturtiums in containers: Succession planting can be done in containers, which can be a great way to add a burst of color to your patio or balcony.
Try different varieties: Experiment with different nasturtium varieties, such as 'Empress of India' or 'Jewel of Africa', to find the one that suits your taste and climate.
Harvest at the right time: Harvest nasturtium flowers and leaves at the right time to get the most out of your crop.

Conclusion

Succession planting is a great way to enjoy nasturtiums throughout the growing season. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can extend the blooming period, increase yields, reduce seed loss, and improve garden management. Remember to choose a high-quality nasturtium seed variety, prepare the soil, and plant the seeds at the right time. With a little planning and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of nasturtiums all season long.