Tropaeolum (Nasturtium)

Easy-growing edible blooms for vibrant summer colour

Tropaeolum (Nasturtium) Seeds define a versatile category celebrated for exuberant blooms, rounded peppery foliage, and a generous flowering display from early summer to the first frosts. This selection spans classic Tropaeolum majus and compact forms of Tropaeolum minus, alongside airy choices such as the canary creeper (Tropaeolum peregrinum). Available as dwarf, trailing, and climbing types, these Nasturtium flower seeds suit borders, raised beds, and informal ground cover, with cascading strains ideal for containers and hanging baskets. The blossoms and soft leaves support biodiversity by attracting bees and hoverflies, adding value to wildlife-friendly plantings while bringing a bold, informal texture to mixed plantings and cottage-style schemes.

As a reliable half-hardy annual, Tropaeolum (Nasturtium) Seeds are known for ease of cultivation and a forgiving nature. Plants appreciate full sun for the richest bloom and can be direct sown after last frost for rapid establishment in mild, warming soils. Many gardeners value companion planting benefits: foliage can act as a helpful trap crop for aphids, while the open, nectar-rich flowers are naturally pollinator friendly. Beyond ornamental impact, the category also offers edible flowers and peppery leaves for salads and garnishes, plus spicy edible seed pods that are often used as pickled caper substitutes—an appealing blend of beauty and kitchen usefulness without added complexity.

Within this range, Tropaeolum (Nasturtium) Seeds include dwarf nasturtiums for edging, trailing selections for tumbling from pots, and climbing nasturtium seeds that weave through supports for vertical accents. Options span Tropaeolum seeds suited to containers and hanging baskets as well as garden nasturtium seeds that fill gaps swiftly with low maintenance habit. Used thoughtfully with Nasturtium Seeds, planting schemes gain long-lasting structure, enhanced biodiversity, and a season-spanning flowering display, whether chosen for borders, ground cover, or balcony containers where trailing varieties can shine.

Nasturtium Seeds

This navigator provides links to the broader Flowers Seeds collection and related categories. Alongside Tropaeolum (Nasturtium) Seeds, it includes annuals, fast-growing selections, container-friendly choices, drought-tolerant types, and popular companions such as calendula, cosmos, marigold, zinnia, and ipomoea. The links assist with comparing growth habits, bloom times, and garden uses across similar seed groups.

• Flowers Seeds
• Annual Flowers
• Fast Growing Flowers
• Container friendly Flowers
• Drought Tolerant Flowers
• Calendula
• Cosmos
• Marigold
• Zinnia
• Ipomoea

Nasturtium Seeds

Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum) thrive in full sun, with light shade in hot spells, and prefer well-drained, moderately fertile to poor soil—avoid overfeeding to keep blooms prolific. Direct sow after the last frost once soil warms; in mild climates, early autumn sowing may be possible. Water evenly during establishment, then allow the surface to dry slightly between drinks. These half-hardy annuals are low-maintenance and versatile: useful as ground cover, in containers and hanging baskets, or to scramble with light support. Forms include Tropaeolum majus, T. minus, and the canary creeper (T. peregrinum). Valued in companion planting and often used as a decoy for aphids; flowers and young leaves add a peppery, edible flourish.

• Container suitable: Performs well in pots and hanging baskets; use a free-draining, low-nutrient mix and avoid high-nitrogen feeds.
• Pollinator friendly: Open blooms attract bees and hoverflies; limit pesticide use and deadhead to prolong nectar availability.
• Edible: Flowers, young leaves, and green seed pods have a spicy, peppery flavor; suitable for salads and garnishes or pickled as caper-like pods.
• Ornamental: Trailing and climbing habit offers quick ground cover and seasonal color; provide support for canary creeper types.

When should I sow Tropaeolum (Nasturtium) seeds outdoors?

Direct sow Tropaeolum (Nasturtium) seeds after the final frost, once the soil has warmed and is workable. In mild, frost‑light conditions, an early autumn sowing may be possible for earlier blooms the following season. As a half‑hardy annual, nasturtium is happiest sown where it will grow, covered lightly with soil and kept evenly moist until established. Germination typically occurs in warm soil within a couple of weeks, though cooler conditions can slow it. Thin or transplant gently so seedlings have room to develop.

What sun and soil do nasturtiums prefer?

Nasturtiums flower best in full sun, with light shade helpful during very hot periods. They thrive in well‑drained, moderately fertile to poor soils; overly rich conditions or high‑nitrogen feeding encourage abundant leaves at the expense of flowers. Work towards a free‑draining texture and avoid waterlogged spots. Water regularly in dry spells to keep plants moving, but allow the surface to dry slightly between waterings. This balance typically supports steady growth and a good display.

How far apart should I plant nasturtiums, and do climbing types need support?

Allow a generous gap between plants so foliage can expand without crowding; compact forms (often classed as Tropaeolum minus) can sit closer together, while trailing or sprawling types of T. majus appreciate more elbow room. Climbing selections and the delicate canary creeper (Tropaeolum peregrinum) benefit from light supports such as netting, twine, a small trellis, or twiggy branches. Their stems are soft, so guide them gently and avoid heavy structures or tight ties that could damage growth.

Are nasturtiums suitable for hanging baskets and containers?

Yes—trailing T. majus cultivars spill attractively over rims, and dwarf types suit smaller pots and window boxes. Choose a container with ample drainage and fill with a free‑draining, not overly rich mix. Water thoroughly, then let the top layer dry a little before the next soak; consistent moisture supports flowering, but saturated compost can cause decline. Feeding is usually minimal; avoid high‑nitrogen formulas. Deadheading or light trimming helps baskets stay tidy and encourages continued bloom.

Are nasturtium flowers and leaves edible?

Both flowers and leaves are edible and have a fresh, peppery flavor that suits salads and garnishes; they are often prized as edible flowers. Young seed pods are also spicy and can be pickled as a caper substitute. Only eat plants you have positively identified as edible Tropaeolum grown without harmful chemicals, and rinse harvests before use. Flavor varies with age and growing conditions, so sample a small amount first to judge intensity.

Do nasturtiums attract pollinators and work as companion plants?

Nasturtiums are pollinator friendly, drawing bees and hoverflies to their nectar‑rich, open blooms and long spurs. In mixed plantings, they can complement vegetables and herbs, and are sometimes used as a soft “trap crop” that may divert aphids—though this means checking plants regularly and managing any build‑ups. Their climbing and trailing habit provides ground cover or vertical interest without demanding care, supporting a more biodiverse, low‑maintenance garden space.

Seed is sourced from audited producers and distributed under documented quality controls, including germination testing, lot traceability, and clear treatment-status labelling. Suppliers follow applicable phytosanitary and purity standards, and varieties are offered for general horticultural use. Guidance provided here is general and may vary with microclimate, soil, hardiness zone, or hemisphere. Product pages carry variety-specific instructions and any regulatory notes.

Easy-growing edible blooms for vibrant summer colour

Tropaeolum (Nasturtium) Seeds offer cheerful, edible flowers and soft, rounded foliage that thrive in lean, well-drained soil. Choose dwarf, trailing, or climbing forms for beds, baskets, and vertical accents. Sow directly where they are to flower after the last frost, or start under cover in cool, bright conditions and transplant young plants with minimal root disturbance. Space 25–30 cm apart and cover seeds 1.5–2 cm deep; germination typically occurs in 7–14 days in moderate warmth. Full sun promotes the most abundant blooms, though light shade is tolerated. Avoid rich feeding, as excessive nutrients encourage leaves over flowers. Regular water in dry spells supports continuous display, and deadheading can extend the season. Flowers and young leaves bring a peppery, culinary note to salads and garnishes, while abundant nectar attracts pollinators. Nasturtiums can also serve in mixed plantings around vegetables. In mild climates, late-season sowings may overwinter for an earlier show the following year.