Nasturtia in Barr's Cottage
Tropaeolum majus
A fast-growing half-hardy annual with bright edible flowers and round leaves. In the UK it’s easy from seed, flowers well in poor soil, and suits beds, edging, hanging baskets, or larger containers.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Nasturtium
Planting Calendar
Sow Seeds
28 Mar – 9 MaySow seeds around 28th March - 9th May in modules or direct where they are to flower. Cover with of compost and keep the compost just moist while seedlings emerge.
Thin Or Prick Out
2 May – 16 MayWhen seedlings have a couple of true leaves, from 2nd May to 16th May, thin direct-sown seedlings or prick out module-sown plants into individual cells. Handle them by the leaves, not the stems, and keep them moving steadily so they do not become leggy.
Harden Off
2 May – 16 MayFrom 2nd May to 16th May, move plants outside for longer each day before planting them out. Protect them from cold nights and strong wind, and keep them in a sheltered spot at first.
Plant Out Or Sow Direct
2 May – 16 MayPlant out or sow direct around 2nd May - 16th May, once the soil has started to warm. Space plants apart, water in thoroughly straight after planting, and give them a sunny spot with free-draining soil.
Deadheading & Maintenance
8 Jun – 29 SeptFrom 8th June to 29th September, remove fading flowers regularly so the plant keeps producing new blooms instead of setting seed. Water only in dry spells, because rich soil and heavy feeding usually mean more leaves and fewer flowers.
Harvest Flowers And Leaves
8 Jun – 29 SeptPick flowers and young leaves from 8th June until 29th September. Harvest in the morning for the best flavour, and take only a few leaves from each plant so it keeps flowering well.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Nasturtium.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Nasturtium to consider
Alaska
A compact, variegated nasturtium with cream-mottled foliage and bright flowers. Good for edging and containers.
Empress of India
A dwarf, deep red-flowered type with neat growth. Useful for smaller beds and pots.
Jewel Mix
A mixed dwarf strain that flowers freely from summer into autumn. Handy for quick colour in beds and containers.
Whirlybird Mix
A semi-trailing mix with double flowers and a tidy habit. Suits baskets, tubs, and spilling over raised edges.
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Garlic
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Peas
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