Sow and Plant – Soaking seeds in water overnight before planting may accelerate germination, but nasturtium seeds germinate best in warm soil. Plant seeds approximately 1 inch (3 cm) deep and 3 inches (8 cm) apart in the soil. Thin to a distance of 12 inches (30 cm) in all directions. Our Garden Planner can generate a personalized planting, sowing, and harvesting calendar for your region.
How long does it take nasturtiums to grow from seed?
Why and when nasturtium should be started indoors – Four to six weeks are required for nasturtiums to reach maturity, and they cannot be planted outdoors until the last frost of the season has passed. You can begin the growing process earlier in the year if you start your seeds indoors because you can protect them from the cold.
This means that, despite the fact that the maturation process still requires four to six weeks, you can enjoy beautiful, vibrant blooms earlier in the year. However, these gorgeous mature plants must be planted after the last frost, so you will need to time your planting accordingly. Your nasturtiums will be prepared for transplanting once the weather warms if you plant your seeds four to six weeks before the last frost date.
Keep an eye on the local weather and the estimated date of the last frost, and err on the side of caution when in doubt.
Choosing and Preparing a Site for Planting – Nasturtiums thrive in poorer soils and typically do not require additional fertilizer (unless your soil is extremely poor). An excess of nitrogen will result in more foliage than flowers. The soil should have good drainage.
What is the optimal planting time for nasturtium seeds?
When to grow – Sow outdoors, where they will flower, between March and May. They will bloom throughout the summer and fall.
Should nasturtium seeds be nicked prior to planting?
Nicking Seeds Prior to Planting – So why is it necessary to nick seed coats? Nicking seeds prior to planting facilitates water absorption, which signals the plant embryo to begin germination. The act of nicking plant seeds will accelerate germination and accelerate the growth of your garden.
- This method is also referred to as scarification.
- Which seeds require nipping? Most seeds benefit from nicking if they have an impermeable (waterproof) seed coat.
- Large or difficult-to-germinate seeds, such as those of,, and, require scarification for optimal germination.
- The majority of plants in the and families have impermeable seed coats and will germinate more effectively when scarified.
Seeds with a low germination rate or that are scarce should also be nicked to increase the likelihood that they will germinate.
