Growing Jewel Mix Nasturtium Garden Seeds

Start Jewel Mix nasturtium seeds indoors 6-8 weeks prior to final frost. Nasturtium seeds will germinate in 14-21 days and, once germinated, move to fluorescent grow light for 16 hours of light per day until two sets of true leaves have developed. Transplant seedlings to indoor container or harden off if transplanting to a partially shaded spot outside. Plant 3-4 Jewel Mix nasturtium seeds 1/8" deep and 18-24" apart in rich, evenly moist, and well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Although Jewel Mix nasturtium is tolerant to drought and poor soil, plants will show signs of wilt and decline by mid-summer once daytime heat becomes too extreme. Unlike other varieties of nasturtium, Jewel Mix is a dwarfed variety and does not require the same full sun as much taller cultivars. Nasturtium has no serious pests or diseases, but monitor regularly for aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs. Jewel Mix nasturtium seeds mature in 54-63 days as 12-18" tall dwarfed spreading uprights with a 12-24" spread and 2½" blooms of papery blooms of canary, peach, carmine, and salmon atop lush greens.

Tropaeolum majus, or just commonly called nasturtium, is native to the warm subtropics of the 10,000-ft high Andes mountains in Bolivia and Colombia. Nasturtium receives its common name from an oil it produces similar to watercress (Nasturtium officinale). With exception for its roots, the nasturtium plant is entirely edible including its leaves, pods, seeds, buds, and especially the flowers often used in salads and stir frys.