Nasturtiums are a total garden favorite, and here’s the best part: you don’t need a huge backyard to enjoy them! Even if you’ve only got a small balcony to work with, these versatile beauties can thrive in containers. With a few simple tricks, you’ll have a lush, flowering display in no time.
Growing in Pots
To keep things easy, I recommend planting your seeds or young starts directly into a good-sized pot right away—this saves you the headache of repotting later. Standard potting soil works great, especially if it’s a bit loamy; just mix in a little sand for drainage. If you want a head start, you can start your seeds indoors on a sunny windowsill in March, then move them to their outdoor pots in May once the frost is gone.
Choosing the Right Variety
You’ve basically got two choices when it comes to nasturtiums: the “trailers” and the “bushy” types. The trailing varieties love to climb or spill over edges, so they’ll need a larger container (around 10 gallons) and a trellis for support. If you’re short on space, go for the compact, mounded varieties. They fit perfectly in smaller planters or bowls, and the best part is they’re easy to move around if you decide to rearrange your balcony decor.
Care and Feeding
Nasturtiums are famously low-maintenance. Give them a spot in full sun or partial shade, and they’ll be happy campers. The main thing to watch is the water. Check the soil daily during the hot summer months—if the top inch feels dry, give them a drink. Just make sure your pot has drainage holes, as they don’t like “wet feet” (soggy roots).
When it comes to fertilizer, less is definitely more. Nasturtiums actually bloom better in nutrient-poor soil! Feeding them once a month is plenty. If you’re planning to snack on the edible flowers or leaves (which I highly recommend!), stick to a natural or organic fertilizer.
Quick Checklist for Success
Growing nasturtiums in pots is a breeze. You’ll have a stunning floral display on your balcony if you keep these points in mind:
- Pick a sunny or partly shaded spot
- Choose the right growth habit (climbing vs. bushy)
- Use a pot that fits the variety
- Water whenever the soil feels dry
- Don’t over-fertilize!
The Bottom Line: Big Rewards, Little Effort
You don’t need a massive garden to enjoy everything nasturtiums have to offer. They’re incredibly easy to grow in containers, and the payoff is huge: they look gorgeous, they’re packed with health benefits, and they add a peppery kick to your summer salads. So, what are you waiting for? Get planting!
