Nasturtium cultivation and growing methods to keep it blooming all year round with brilliant colors
Nasturtium, a plant of the genus Tropaeolum in the family Tropaeolaceae, is a perennial semi-climbing or trailing plant. The plant height is 30cm-70cm. The basal leaves have long petioles, and the leaf blades are pentagonal, divided into three parts, with secondary lobes, and a few small lobes and sharp teeth. It is a beautiful plant that can bloom all year round! Below we bring you nasturtium growing methods!
I. Nasturtium growing methods
(1). Choosing soil
Nasturtium needs sandy soil rich in humus and with good drainage, with a pH between 5 and 6. In daily care it needs frequent loosening of the soil to avoid soil compaction and to ensure the soil's air permeability, otherwise water easily accumulates. Only a good soil environment can ensure healthy root growth.
(2). Suitable temperature
The suitable growing temperature for nasturtium is 18-24 degrees, and the suitable sprouting temperature is 8-20 degrees. In winter, the temperature needs to be kept above 10 degrees so it can overwinter safely without frost damage. In summer, the temperature needs to be below 35 degrees, otherwise it is very difficult to get the plant to bloom.
(3). Plenty of light
Nasturtium needs plenty of light during its growing period. In spring, autumn and winter, ensure sufficient light and place it in a sunny environment. In summer, take good shade measures to avoid exposure to strong sun and excessively high temperatures, which would affect the plant's blooming.
(4). Water and fertilizer management
Water and nutrients are crucial to the growth and blooming of nasturtium. In spring and autumn, water once every 2-3 days. In summer, increase the watering frequency to once every day; when the temperature is higher, also spray water frequently to cool and moisturize. During the flowering period, reduce watering to avoid leggy shoots. Fertilization is mainly with compound fertilizer to ensure balanced nutrients, which is beneficial to plant growth and blooming. Do not apply concentrated fertilizer, otherwise it will cause fertilizer burn.
II. Nasturtium growth habits
It likes a mild climate and cannot tolerate severe cold or intense heat. The suitable growing temperature is 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. It can endure short periods of 0 degrees C, likes warmth and moisture, and its overwintering temperature is above 10 degrees C.
It does not bloom easily at high summer temperatures, and growth is inhibited above 35 degrees C.
It needs plenty of light in winter, spring and autumn, and potted plants should avoid scorching sun exposure in summer.
III. Uses of nasturtium
Ornamental: nasturtium has plump leaves and beautiful flowers, making it a rare potted decoration.
Medicinal: clears heat and detoxifies. Used for conjunctivitis and boils and swollen sores.
Food ingredient: nasturtium can be eaten raw in a cold salad, with minced garlic, MSG, sesame oil and other seasonings added, stirred a little, and it is complete in color, aroma and taste!
IV. Nasturtium flower language
Love is everywhere, it is just that your mind is elsewhere.