Nasturtiums are a total win for any home gardener. They’re gorgeous, super low-maintenance, and add a pop of color to any space. However, when it comes to fertilizing, there are a few “golden rules” you should keep in mind. In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly what you need to know to keep yours thriving.
It’s All About the Environment
Whether your nasturtiums need a nutrient boost (and how much) depends on a few key factors. Before you grab the watering can, take a quick look at your setup. Ask yourself:
- Where is the plant located?
- What’s its growth habit (is it a trailer or a mounded variety)?
- Are you planning to eat the leaves or flowers?
Answering these three questions will help you figure out the perfect feeding schedule for your plants.
Don’t Overdo It!
One of the biggest mistakes I see gardeners make is being *too* generous with the fertilizer. Nasturtiums are actually pretty scrappy! If you overfeed them, the plant will put all its energy into growing a massive amount of green foliage, but you’ll hardly see any flowers. Since most of us grow them for those stunning blooms, over-fertilizing is actually counterproductive.
How to Fertilize the Right Way
If your nasturtiums are planted directly in your garden beds, they usually don’t need much extra help unless your soil is really poor. Usually, mixing in a little compost in the spring and keeping them watered during the heat of the summer is all they need to stay happy.
If you’re growing them in containers, things change a bit depending on the variety. Some nasturtiums stay compact, while others can send out massive vines. Naturally, the bigger the plant, the more “fuel” it needs.
For a potted nasturtium that’s purely for decoration, a small dose of liquid fertilizer once a month works wonders. Fertilizer spikes are a great time-saving alternative, too—just make sure to follow the package directions and don’t go overboard. Pro tip: If you’re planning on tossing those peppery leaves or flowers into a salad, stick to organic fertilizers or good old-fashioned compost!
The Bottom Line: Context is Key
There’s no “one size fits all” answer for fertilizing nasturtiums, but it’s definitely not rocket science. It all comes down to where they’re growing and what you want out of them. Either way, they aren’t high-maintenance divas! With these tips in mind, you’re all set for a successful growing season.
