When to plant Nasturtiums in Oxford

Sow seeds around 27th March - 10th 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 10th April to 8th 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 24th April to 15th 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 8th May - 22nd May. Space them 30 cm apart, water in thoroughly straight after planting, and give them a sunny spot with free-draining soil.

From 7th June to 29th 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 7th June until 29th October. Harvest in the morning for the best flavour, and take only a few leaves from each plant so it keeps flowering well.