Nasturtium Seeds,
Tip Top Mahogany

Sow seeds outdoors in the spring after the danger of the last frost has passed. For warm climates (USDA Zones 9-11), nasturtiums can be planted in the fall for blooms during cooler months. If you live in a cooler climate, you can start seeds indoors 4 weeks before the last frost and transplant them carefully to avoid disturbing their roots. The ideal germination temperature is 55-65 F. Learn about your area's hardiness zones and first/last frost dates in our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources'.

Soak seeds in warm overnight before planting to soften their hard outer coat and encourage faster germination. Sow seeds 1/2-1 inch deep in well-draining soil. Space plants 8-12 inches apart for good airflow and room for growth. Plant in a location with full sun for the best blooms, but the plants will tolerate some light shade.

Water nasturtiums moderately but avoid overwatering, as they prefer slightly drier conditions once established. Regular deadheading of spent flowers encourages continuous blooming throughout the growing season. Fertilizers are not necessary and should be avoided, as overly rich soil can lead to foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Nasturtiums are pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids, which can be easily managed by spraying the plants with water or using insecticidal soap.

• Nasturtiums will often reseed, but to save seeds, allow the flowers to mature and let the petals fall to the ground.
• Collect the seeds from the plant before they fall.
• When the seeds are dry, label and store them in a cool, dark, dry place over the winter.