Article on Writers Guild: Nasturtiums Flower Discussion
Nasturtiums, with their vibrant flowers and disc-like leaves, are a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of beauty and functionality to their vegetable plots. These resilient plants, native to central and South America, are not only visually appealing but also offer several benefits for your garden.
To successfully grow nasturtiums, start by sowing seeds about 1.5 cm deep, ideally 2 per pot. Water them in, and place them in a greenhouse or a bright, warm indoor spot to germinate. Alternatively, you can direct-sow outdoors starting late spring (end of May) continuing every two weeks until mid-June. This succession planting supports continuous blooms and coverage in the garden.
Provide seedlings with ample light to avoid leggy growth and water carefully to keep soil moist but not saturated. Use a spray bottle or small watering can for gentle watering at the seedling stage.
Nasturtiums are particularly beneficial when used as companion plants or trap crops. They attract aphids and serve as a trap crop, drawing pests away from vegetables. Their flowers add visual appeal and are edible. Strategically plant nasturtiums throughout your garden to harness their pest-repelling properties.
Incorporate nasturtiums near vegetables susceptible to aphids or other pests for natural pest control. Their high water content and rapid growth make them useful for improving ecosystem balance in vegetable beds.
Timothy Newcomb, a Master Gardener Volunteer in Anoka County, provides valuable advice on growing annual plants like nasturtiums. His expertise is likely in the Midwest region's gardening practices, and his advice may address the importance of planting nasturtiums directly in soil to avoid transplant shock.
Timothy Newcomb's focus may include starting nasturtiums indoors in mid to late April or outdoors towards the end of May. His advice may also include specific methods for starting nasturtiums, such as using paper-type starting trays.
In the chilly Midwest, nasturtiums are grown as annuals. They most commonly range in color from yellow to reddish orange, adding a splash of vibrant colour to your garden.
Timothy Newcomb's advice or information is likely available online, making it easily accessible for gardeners seeking guidance in growing and integrating nasturtiums into their vegetable gardens. By following these practices, you can successfully grow nasturtiums and use them effectively for both beauty and pest management.
Nasturtiums can be a valuable addition to your home-and-garden lifestyle, especially in integrated home vegetable plots, as they not only offer a touch of beauty but also serve as effective pest traps and edible flowers. To grow them successfully, consider starting nasturtium seeds indoors around mid to late April or outdoors towards the end of May, following Timothy Newcomb's advice on the best gardening practices in the Midwest region.
