Tall Mix Nasturtium (Tropaeolum maju) is a popular and easy-to-grow annual that stands taller than many other nasturtium varieties, reaching up to 2 feet in height. With softly draping leaves and brilliantly colored flowers in shades of gold, orange, red, and yellow, this variety quickly fills garden beds or containers, adding a splash of vibrant color. It's an ideal choice for covering fading bulb foliage in late spring or for creating a striking display in mixed flower beds.
This mix not only attracts hummingbirds with its glowing, long-spurred blossoms, but also offers edible leaves and flowers with a spicy, watercress-like flavor. Perfect for garnishing salads, seafood dishes, or mixing with cream cheese, the edible parts of this nasturtium add both color and flavor to your culinary creations. In mild winter climates, sow seeds again in early July for a late summer display of blooms.
* SCROLL DOWN FOR DETAILED GROWING INFO *
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• Growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
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• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
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* DIRECTIONS *
Common Names: Tall Mix Nasturtium
Latin Name: Tropaeolum majus
Type: Flowering Vine
Life Cycle: Annual in most climates; tender perennial in USDA zones 10 and warmer
USDA Zones: 2 - 11 (grown as an annual in most zones)
Stratification: Not required
Germination Ease: Easy
Sunlight: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Moisture: Prefers well-drained soil; drought-tolerant once established
Soil: Average garden soil with loose, light texture
Height: Up to 2 feet
Spread: 12-18 inches
Color: Mixed colors in shades of gold, orange, red, and yellow
Bloom Season: Late spring to frost
Companion Plants: Pairs well with pumpkins, squash, and beans. Protects crops by luring away pests.
Climate Adaptability: Adaptable to a range of climates; frost-sensitive
~ Sowing ~
When to Start Outside: 1-2 weeks after your average last frost date, when soil temperature is 55°F or warmer.
When to Start Inside: Not recommended; direct sowing is preferable.
Pre-Sowing Treatment: For best results, soak seeds in water for 12-24 hours before planting to soften the seed coat and encourage faster germination.
Planting Depth: Sow seeds ½ inch deep.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Light and Temperature: Nasturtiums prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Germination: Seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days.
~ Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors ~
Timing: Direct sowing is recommended, but if starting indoors, transplant after the risk of frost has passed.
Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Spacing: Space plants 10-12 inches apart to allow for adequate growth and air circulation.
Transplanting: Gently transplant seedlings into the prepared soil, ensuring the root ball is covered and the plant is stable. Water well after planting.
~ Growing ~
Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Nasturtiums prefer drier conditions once established but may need additional water during prolonged dry spells.
Fertilizing: Avoid fertilizing as this encourages foliage growth over flowers.
Pest and Disease Management: Nasturtiums are generally pest-resistant but can attract aphids. Use organic pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.
Maintenance: Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming. Plants will spread and fill in large spaces, but because they lack tendrils, they should be guided if grown vertically.
~ Harvesting ~
When to Harvest: Harvest flowers, leaves, and seeds as needed throughout the growing season.
How to Harvest: Pinch off flowers and leaves as needed, taking care not to damage the plant. Harvest seeds when they are mature and firm.
Edible Uses: Both the flowers and leaves are edible and add a peppery flavor to salads, sandwiches, and garnishes. Seeds can be pickled as a substitute for capers.
Drying and Storing: Nasturtium seeds can be dried and stored for future planting or culinary use.
~ Seed Saving ~
Allow the seeds to mature on the plant before harvesting. Once dry, store the seeds in a cool, dry place for future planting.
~ Additional Information ~
Forage for Pollinators: Nasturtium flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Origin: Native to South America, particularly the Andes region.
Nomenclature: The common name "nasturtium" comes from the Latin words for "nose-twister," reflecting the plant’s peppery flavor.
History: Nasturtiums have a long history of being used for both culinary and medicinal purposes, with the entire plant, including flowers, leaves, and seeds, being edible.
Climate Adaptability: Thrives in warm climates and can be grown as a tender perennial in USDA zones 10 and warmer.
