When to plant Nasturtiums in Edinburgh

Sow seeds around 6th April - 20th April in modules or direct where they are to flower. Cover with 1 cm of compost and keep the compost just moist while seedlings emerge.

When seedlings have a couple of true leaves, from 20th April to 18th 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.

From 4th May to 25th 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.

Once the soil has warmed and frost risk has passed, plant out your hardened-off seedlings around 18th May - 1st June. Space them 30 cm apart, water in thoroughly straight after planting, and give them a sunny spot with free-draining soil.

From 17th June to 16th October, 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.

Pick flowers and young leaves from 17th June until 16th October. Harvest in the morning for the best flavour, and take only a few leaves from each plant so it keeps flowering well.