Nasturtiums are a total favorite for home gardeners, and for good reason! If you pick the right spot, they’re incredibly low-maintenance and perfect for beginners just getting their hands dirty. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to find the absolute best home for your plants so they can truly thrive.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Nasturtiums are sun-lovers at heart, so they do best in full sun or partial shade. While they won’t exactly die in a shady corner, you’ll definitely notice fewer of those vibrant flowers. You also want to think about how much room they have to roam. Compact varieties are perfect for a pot or a window box, while the trailing types need plenty of space to spread out—and maybe even a trellis to climb!
Getting the Conditions Just Right
Once you’ve picked out the location, it’s all about the upkeep. Nasturtiums are thirsty plants, so keeping them hydrated is key. If they’re in your garden, Mother Nature usually helps out with the rain, but you’ll still need to step in during dry spells. For balcony plants, use the “finger test”: if the top inch of soil feels dry, it’s time to water. As a general rule of thumb, aim to water them about three times a week.
The soil is another big factor. Standard garden soil usually works just fine, but here’s a pro tip: don’t make it *too* rich. If the soil is overloaded with nutrients, the plant will grow tons of leaves but won’t produce many flowers. Be stingy with the fertilizer! In the garden, a little compost in the spring is plenty. For potted plants, a light feeding once a month is enough. Also, make sure to loosen the soil occasionally to keep things airy and prevent water from pooling at the roots.
Checklist: The Ideal Home for Your Plants
Finding the right spot is easy if you keep these quick tips in mind. When choosing a location, look for:
- A sunny or partially shaded area
- Well-draining, nutrient-poor soil
- Garden spots that get decent rainfall
- Frost protection for ornamental varieties during the winter
The Bottom Line
Picking the right spot is more than half the battle when it comes to growing beautiful nasturtiums. Once you’ve nailed the location and the basic care, these plants will reward you with a gorgeous display that lasts all the way through late summer. Happy gardening!
