Are you having trouble growing nasturtiums at the back of your garden?
Nasturtiums are one of the most vibrant and colorful plants to grow in any garden. Besides this, some people prefer to use them for various medical treatments like healing chest and nasal congestion. I personally like using them for the unique spicy scent and peppery taste.
With this in mind, I have curated this blog on where to plant nasturtiums in a vegetable garden.
Where To Plant Nasturtiums In Vegetable Garden
Nasturtiums are different from all the other plants, especially when it comes to growing them. Ideally, this plant requires a sunny location with well-drained soil. The quality of the soil should be lean or poor, with a sandy or light texture.
According to some experts, neutral soil with a pH ranging from 6.1 to 7.8 is ideal for growing these plants. In addition to this, the plant can produce more foliage instead of flowers if it receives partial sunlight and shade.
On a similar note, soil that is rich in nutrients can hamper the growth of the flowers and encourage a greener look instead. However, if proper steps are followed, the plant can retain its natural beauty.
Additionally, nasturtiums can also grow in places that experience high temperatures and droughts as they have developed a tough resilience to it. But, the leaves are still prone to getting scorched if adequate care is not taken.
Common Diseases And Pest
1. Aphids
Nasturtiums are known for being a sacrificial crop as it helps to divert pests away from your main vegetation. Aphids are known to be one of the most common pests that are drawn to these plants.
Based on my experience, these plants act as a good decoy to keep pests away from your vegetable crops. On the other hand, you can get rid of the aphids by spraying water from a hose.
2. Cabbage Loopers
Another well-known pest that often plagues nasturtiums is cabbage worms. These green worms have a tendency of eating the foliage and laying their eggs on the plant. Once the eggs mature, the young worms hatch out and destroy the plant completely. In this regard, the only way to remove them is to hand-pick them individually before they lay their eggs.
3. Leafminers
When leafminers lay their eggs on the leaves, a chemical is released, and this causes the leaf to look bleached and infected. I would suggest removing the infected leaves and spraying neem oil for protection against these flies.
Moreover, the soil should also be cleaned as debris and dirt can attract leafminers toward the plant.
4. Aster Yellows
Lastly, this is a minute organism that can cause your plants to have stunted growth or excessive leaf growth instead of flower petals. Since they are hard to spot, it is recommended to destroy the infected petals and leaves.
Uses of Nasturtium Plants
Over the last few decades, researchers and scientists have debated whether these plants are edible for daily consumption. After performing comprehensive research, it has been concluded that nasturtiums are rich in vitamin C.
Nowadays, the plant is also being used for its healing and antibiotic properties. Also, the entire plant is completely edible for daily consumption. Some people prefer to add the plant as an ingredient for desserts, soups, and salads.
For instance, I like using the flowers in my desserts as they add vibrant color and give out a subtle peppery essence which often brings a unique taste to the palate.
How To Water Nasturtiums?
Unlike most plants, nasturtiums require the least amount of water as they can survive in intense heat and drought regions. Generally, it is ideal to water your plant at least once a week and make sure that the soil is not dry.
Moreover, the plants gain significantly whenever they receive an adequate supply of water. As a result, they boast a more robust bloom and dense foliage.
Conclusion
That said, I have reached the end of my guide, and I hope you found it helpful. Before leaving, I would like to sum up a few points.
Firstly, nasturtiums require adequate sunlight and water. Secondly, the plant can grow on lean and poor soil as long as it receives the required protection from various pests.
Just keep these points in mind and I’m sure your nasturtiums will turn out vibrant and dense. Happy gardening!