Easy, edible, and dazzling — nasturtiums are perfect for beginners, containers, beds and companion planting. This Alkarty-focused guide explains how to grow from seed, care for plants, the health & garden benefits, and key advantages.
Alkarty product notes
Alkarty lists a nasturtium flower seeds product (pack contains multiple seeds and a short "learn how to grow" note). Use the packet instructions alongside the general guidance below for best results. :
1) How to grow nasturtium from seed
Indoor seed starting
When: Start 3–4 weeks before the last expected frost if you want an early crop; otherwise seed outdoors after frost risk has passed. :
Soak (optional): Soaking larger nasturtium seeds overnight can speed germination, but it's not required.
Medium: Use a free-draining seed mix in cells or small pots; moisten before sowing.
Sowing: Plant seeds 1/2"–1" (1.2–2.5 cm) deep or press into surface (they germinate readily). Keep soil moist until sprouting (usually 7–14 days).
After germination: Move seedlings to bright light, pot up when they have true leaves, and harden off 7–10 days before planting out. Avoid transplanting very late — nasturtiums dislike root disturbance. :
Direct sow outdoors (recommended for best success)
Timing: Sow in spring after all danger of frost when soil has warmed. In mild climates sow earlier.
Site: Choose full sun for the brightest blooms (some varieties tolerate partial shade). Ensure very good drainage.
Sow & space: Plant seeds 1/2"–1" deep, space 8–12" (20–30 cm) apart for bush types; vining types need supports/trellis and more room. Thin to strongest seedlings.
Care while germinating: Keep seed bed evenly moist; germination typically 7–14 days but can take longer in cool soils.
2) Care & ongoing maintenance
Aspect
Recommendation
Light
Full sun gives the best and most abundant flowers; some shade in very hot climates is tolerated.
Soil
Prefer poorer, well-drained soil. Rich, high-nitrogen soils produce lush foliage but fewer flowers — avoid over-fertilizing.
Watering
Keep evenly moist for seedlings. Once established nasturtiums are fairly drought tolerant — water deeply but infrequently; allow topsoil to dry between waterings. :
Support
Provide trellis or supports for vining types; keeping vines up prevents flowers and leaves from getting dirty and encourages better airflow.
Pests & disease
Nasturtiums can attract aphids (they're used as trap crops) and may get fungal leaf spots in humid conditions — good airflow, avoiding overhead watering, or using them as sacrificial trap plants helps.
Pruning & seed saving
Deadhead to extend flowering or let some flowers set seed — nasturtiums readily self-seed; collect dry seed pods for saving next season.
3) Benefits (health, culinary & garden)
Edible & nutritious: Leaves, flowers and immature seedpods are edible with a peppery, watercress-like flavor and provide vitamin C and minerals. Use fresh in salads, as garnishes, or pickled as caper substitutes.
Natural pest management: Nasturtiums act as trap crops for aphids and whiteflies, protecting other plants.
Soil & landscape uses: Useful as quick groundcover, in containers, hanging baskets, or on slopes — many varieties are low-maintenance and drought tolerant once established.
Medicinal research: Preliminary studies show nasturtium extracts have antimicrobial and other potential health properties (consult healthcare sources before medicinal use).
4) Advantages of growing Alkarty nasturtium seeds
Economical & easy: Seeds are inexpensive and germinate easily — perfect for beginners and bulk planting.
Versatile varieties: Bush and vining types suit containers, beds or vertical spaces — pick the type you want when buying seeds.
Low input needs: Thrive in poorer soils with minimal fertilizer and modest watering once established.
Dual-purpose: Beautiful flowers plus edible leaves/flowers give both ornamental and culinary value.
Quick start checklist
Sow outdoors after last frost; or start indoors 3–4 weeks before and transplant after hardening off.
Plant 1/2"–1" deep; space 8–12" apart (vining types need supports).
Keep evenly moist until germination (7–14 days); then moderate watering.