Nasturtiums are a beautiful and versatile flower that can be used in a variety of ways. They are easy to grow, and they provide a stunning display of color in any garden. They also attract beneficial insects, which help control pests and pollinate other plants. When planting nasturtiums, it is important to select companion plants that will enhance their beauty and performance. Here are some great ideas for what to plant with nasturtiums for the perfect garden.Nasturtiums are a great choice for planting in gardens, as they are easy to grow and require little maintenance. They can be grown from seed directly in the garden, or started indoors and transplanted when larger. When planting nasturtiums, choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Plant the seeds about 1/2 inch deep and ensure there is at least 12 inches between plants to give them room to spread out. Water regularly, particularly during dry spells. Nasturtiums can be harvested or pruned regularly to keep them looking tidy and encourage more blooms.
Companion Plants for Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are known for their vibrant colors and easy care requirements, making them an ideal choice for beginner gardeners. However, when planting nasturtiums in your garden, it is important to choose companion plants that will complement the nasturtiums and provide the best environment for both plants to thrive. Some of the best companion plants for nasturtiums include cucumbers, squash, pumpkins, beans, and sunflowers.
Cucumbers and other vining crops such as squash and pumpkins can be planted nearby nasturtiums to provide additional support to the vines as they climb up trellises or fences. The cucumber leaves also help to shade the soil from direct sunlight so that the nasturtium roots don’t dry out. Additionally, cucumbers are known to attract beneficial pollinators such as bees which will help pollinate both crops.
Beans are another great companion plant for nasturtiums because they can help fix nitrogen in the soil. Nasturtiums tend to be heavy feeders and they benefit from the added nitrogen provided by beans and other legumes. Furthermore, beans have a shallow root system which allows them to grow without disturbing the roots of nearby nasturtium plants.
Sunflowers are also great companion plants for nasturtiums because they grow quickly and provide shade during hot days when temperatures soar above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Sunflowers also produce edible seeds at the end of their growing season which can be harvested and enjoyed by humans or wildlife alike! Finally, sunflowers attract beneficial pollinators such as bees which will help with pollinating both crops.
In conclusion, when planning your garden it is important to consider what companion plants you should choose for your nasturtiums. Cucumbers, squash, pumpkins, beans and sunflowers are all excellent choices that will provide additional benefits such as nitrogen fixation or shade while attracting beneficial pollinators like bees at the same time!
Flowers to Plant with Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are a bright and cheerful addition to any garden. Not only do they look beautiful, but they are also edible and have a slightly peppery taste. When planting nasturtiums, it is important to select plants that will both complement and contrast the vibrant blooms. Here are some of the best flowers to plant with nasturtiums for a stunning combination in your garden or container.
Marigolds are a classic favorite that pair well with nasturtiums. These daisy-like flowers come in shades of yellow, orange and white, adding both brightness and texture to your garden beds. Their cheery blooms will offset the vibrant nasturtiums nicely. Both flowers can tolerate a range of soils, making them a great choice for growing together in containers or flower beds.
Another great option for pairing with nasturtiums is petunias. These annual blooms come in an array of colors ranging from white to purple, providing lots of options when it comes to creating stunning combinations with your nasturtiums. Petunias prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade as well making them an ideal companion for nasturtiums which thrive in sunny spots but will still flower in partially shaded areas.
Calendula is also great choice for planting alongside your nasturtiums. These daisy-like flowers come in shades of yellow, orange and cream and make excellent cut flowers as well as additions to salads or soups! Calendula prefers sunny spots like nasturtiums so they make an ideal combination planted together in beds or containers where they can get plenty of sunshine throughout the day.
Finally, you may want to consider adding snapdragons to your garden beds with your nasturtiums. These tall spires add height and color to any garden setting making them perfect for creating gorgeous displays when planted alongside shorter-growing varieties like nasturtiums. Snapdragons come in shades of pink, red, purple and yellow providing lots of options when it comes to creating unique combinations with other flowers like nasturtiums!
Vegetables to Plant with Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are an easy-to-grow annual flower that can be used to great effect in a garden. Not only are they attractive, but they can also be beneficial to other plants. Planting nasturtiums along with certain vegetables can actually help deter pests and provide additional nutrients to the soil. Here are some vegetables that pair well with nasturtiums:
Tomatoes and squash are two vegetables that benefit from having nasturtiums planted nearby. Nasturtiums have an aromatic scent that deters many of the pests that like to attack tomatoes and squash, such as aphids and caterpillars. Additionally, the flowers of the nasturtium contain a sticky sap that traps these pests.
Cucumbers also benefit from having nasturtiums nearby, as they tend to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings which help control pests. The flowers of the nasturtium will also provide additional pollination for cucumbers, helping them produce a higher yield.
Beans are another vegetable that grow well with nasturtiums, as they both require similar growing conditions and will benefit from each other’s roots. The nitrogen-fixing properties of beans help promote better soil fertility for both plants, while the bright flowers of the nasturtium add visual interest to your garden bed.
Finally, carrots are another vegetable that benefits from being planted near nasturtiums. Carrots tend to attract aphids and other pests, but planting nasturtiums alongside them helps repel these insects while providing extra nutrients to the soil through their nitrogen-fixing properties.
In conclusion, planting certain vegetables alongside your nasturtiums can help deter pests and improve soil fertility in your garden. Tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, beans and carrots all pair well with these beautiful flowers and can make for an attractive addition to any garden bed!
Herbs to Plant with Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are easy-to-grow, sun-loving annuals that have many benefits for gardeners. Their bright, cheerful flowers and lacy foliage make them an attractive addition to any flower bed or vegetable garden. Not only do nasturtiums look great, but they also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and bees to the garden. The flowers and leaves are edible too, adding a spicy flavor to salads or as a garnish. Planting nasturtiums with herbs is a great way to create an attractive and functional garden. Here are some herbs to consider planting with nasturtiums:
Basil: Growing basil in the same bed as nasturtiums is ideal for pest control. Basil helps repel pesky aphids, while nasturtiums attract beneficial insects that feed on aphids and other pests. Basil also has a great flavor that goes well with both salads and cooked dishes.
Chives: Chives also pair well with nasturtiums in the garden, not just in the kitchen! Both plants thrive in sunny spots and enjoy similar soil conditions, so they make an excellent combination for your flower beds or containers. Chives add a mild onion flavor to dishes while also providing some beautiful purple flowers.
Thyme: Another great herb companion for nasturtiums is thyme. It has a wonderful aroma that will fill your garden, and it’s extremely versatile in the kitchen as well! Use it fresh or dried in all sorts of recipes from stews to soups.
Rosemary: Rosemary is another herb that pairs well with nasturtiums in the garden and kitchen alike! Both plants enjoy full sun exposure and benefit from regular watering. Rosemary adds a unique flavor to many dishes, particularly roasted potatoes or grilled meats.
Dill: Last but not least, dill makes an excellent companion plant for nasturtiums. This fragrant herb attracts beneficial insects like bees while also repelling some pests like cabbage worms. Dill is a popular choice for pickles but can be used fresh as well – try it sprinkled over roasted vegetables!
Choose a Suitable Location
When selecting a location to grow nasturtiums, choose an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight. Nasturtiums prefer well-drained soil, so pick a spot with good drainage. If your soil is clay-based, consider adding some organic matter such as compost or aged manure to help improve the drainage and aeration of the soil.
Prepare the Soil
Before planting nasturtiums, it’s important to prepare the soil by loosening it up and removing any weeds or debris. If you haven’t already added organic matter to the soil, now is the time to do so. To ensure that your plants will get all the nutrients they need, mix in a slow-release fertilizer as well.
Planting Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums can be grown from seed or transplants. If you’re planting from seed, sow seeds directly into the ground in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Space them about 6 inches apart and cover lightly with soil. Once your plants have reached about 4 inches tall, thin them out so there is one plant every 8-10 inches apart. Transplanting is best done in spring when temperatures are warmer and there is no danger of frost.
Watering and Fertilizing
Nasturtiums are fairly drought tolerant but should be watered regularly during periods of prolonged dryness or extreme heat. Aim to keep the soil moist but not soggy by providing 1 inch of water per week if necessary. Fertilizing isn’t necessary but can be beneficial; use an all-purpose fertilizer once every two months during the growing season for best results.
Pest Control
Nasturtiums are relatively pest free but may occasionally be affected by aphids or other sucking insects like whiteflies or mealybugs. To control these pests, spray your plants with a solution of insecticidal soap diluted with water every few days until they are gone.
Harvesting Nasturtiums
Nasturtium flowers and leaves can both be harvested for culinary use; simply pick off individual blooms when they reach full size or cut off stems with several flowers attached for bouquets. Leaves can also be harvested as needed; use scissors to snip off just what you need rather than pulling off entire leaves from the plant.
Aesthetic Appeal
Nasturtiums are a beautiful addition to any garden, boasting bright and vibrant colors like yellow, orange, and red. The flowers are often trumpet-shaped with five petals, while the leaves are round or heart-shaped. Planting nasturtiums in your garden can add colorful appeal to your landscape.
Easy to Grow
Nasturtiums are some of the easiest plants to grow, making them a great choice for beginner gardeners. They prefer cooler climates and can tolerate light shade, but they also do well in direct sunlight. They’re drought tolerant and require minimal maintenance. Just make sure the soil is well drained and that you water them regularly.
Versatile Plant
Not only can nasturtiums be planted in the ground as an ornamental flower, but they can also be grown in pots or containers. You can even use them as a climbing vine on trellises or fences! Nasturtiums come in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that fits your space best.
Edible Flowers
The flowers of nasturtiums are edible and have a peppery flavor similar to arugula or watercress. They’re often used as garnishes for salads or added to dishes for flavor and texture. The leaves are also edible and can be used fresh or cooked like spinach.
Pest Control
Nasturtiums contain natural chemicals that repel certain insects like aphids, squash bugs, whiteflies, cucumber beetles, and cabbage worms. Planting them near vulnerable plants like lettuce or cabbage will help keep these pests away from your vegetables!
Caring for Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are a beautiful and easy-to-care-for flower that thrives in full sun and well drained soil. They prefer cool temperatures and need regular watering to keep them looking their best. To ensure the health of your nasturtiums, it is important to provide them with the right environment and the right care. Here are some tips for caring for nasturtiums:
Water your nasturtiums regularly, as they need at least one inch of water per week during the growing season. Be careful not to overwater them, as too much water can cause root rot and other diseases.
Fertilize your nasturtiums every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. This will help keep them healthy and provide essential nutrients.
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage more blooms. Deadheading will also help keep the plants from becoming leggy or straggly.
Prune your nasturtiums regularly to keep them looking neat and tidy. Pruning will also help keep them from becoming too large or spreading too much.
Protect your nasturtiums from frost by covering them up on cold nights. You can also move containers indoors on very cold nights to protect them from frost damage.
Pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and slugs can be a problem for nasturtiums so it is important to inspect plants regularly for signs of pests. If you find any pests, treat with an appropriate pesticide or use an organic solution such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.<
Conclusion
Nasturtiums are incredibly versatile and useful plants to have in the garden. They can be used for a variety of purposes, such as ground cover, companion planting, adding color and flavor to dishes, and providing a natural pest repellent. When planting nasturtiums with other plants, it is important to consider the environment they will be in and how they will interact with each other. To ensure a successful garden, it is best to choose plants that have similar soil needs, water requirements, and light levels. Additionally, companion plants that add texture or color can be great additions when planting with nasturtiums.
Overall, nasturtiums are low-maintenance plants that offer numerous benefits for any garden. With their vibrant colors and distinct flavor, they are sure to make an impact wherever they are planted.