Nasturtium is not only a beautiful ornamental plant, it also tastes really good. In addition, it not only thrives in beds, but also in tubs.
The easy-care and robust nasturtium not only grows well in beds, but also in pots, tubs or balcony boxes. Small and compact varieties are best suited for pots. If you have a lot of space, then large tubs with a trellis for the plant to climb look very impressive. Varieties with a low, bushy habit are ideal for smaller balconies, terraces or front gardens.
How to properly plant nasturtiums in pots
Nasturtium can be treated however you like. You really don't mind the plants or the seeds. If you like growing plants indoors, start in February/March. Then from May you will have strong young plants that can be moved to a larger pot. You can also sow the seeds directly in the planned pot.
❶ Take a pot that has one or more drainage holes, because waterlogging must not form. Then fill it with soil. This should be sandy-loamy. Normal potting soil with rather few nutrients is also suitable. Adding lime is also good for the plants. If the nutrient supply is too plentiful, many leaves will appear, but the plants will not flower as much.
❷ Soak the seeds in warm water for a few hours before sowing. Two to three seeds per pot are sufficient. Accordingly, more must be put into very large buckets. Young plants can also be bought pre-grown, but nasturtium grows so well from seed that it's not worth the expense. After the last frost in May, the plants can then go outside.
❸ Now it's a matter of choosing the right location. The nasturtium thrives in any location. In the shade, however, it produces fewer flowers. If you have a very sunny balcony or other place with a lot of sun, the plant needs more water, otherwise blazing sun is just as possible as partial shade.
How to properly care for nasturtiums in pots
The nasturtium is thirsty - so water itregularly and ideally twice a day on very hot days, because a lot of moisture evaporates through the large leaves. At the latest when the leaves are drooping, it's time to reach for the watering can.
Fertiliser, on the other hand, is rarely necessary. During the flowering period from July to October, it is sufficient if you supply the nasturtium with some liquid fertilizer once a month. You do not have to cut back the plant. If the growth is too lush, you can easily cut some shoots. Here's another reading tip: Nasturtiums don't bloom - 2 tips from us!
By the way:
The nasturtium is an annual. In autumn it forms seed pods, which you can use for the next sowing.