Tropaeolum majus

Nasturtium

We are all familiar with the cheerful orange and yellow blooms of nasturtiums that provide abundant colour in the garden. Plant a few in your veggie garden or en masse under a tree.

How to grow Press seeds into moist, compost-rich soil in autumn or spring. The seeds are the size of a pea, making them easy to sow one at a time. Nasturtiums grow well in full sun as well as under trees in filtered sunlight. They like moist soil and do well in damp parts of the garden. And if you plant them once, they’ll come up time and again. At the end of the season, collect any seeds that drop onto the soil; allow them to dry completely and sow again next season. There are dwarf varieties with a more bushy growth habit and climbing varieties; check the seed packet before you buy.

If aphids are a problem, wipe them off with a damp cloth or spray them with soapy water. Cabbage worms can also be a headache; pick them off by hand or break off the leaves on which the worms have laid eggs. If the plant has been eaten too much, rather pull it out.

Uses in the kitchen Use the brightly coloured flowers and leaves whole in salads or on a sandwich. They also pair well with most cheeses and the flowers make a delicious pesto. The seeds are perfect for pickling.

Other benefits Nasturtiums are great for the immune system – chew a leaf every day to keep you healthy! The flowers attract butterflies and pollinators.

Companion plants Beans, cabbage family, mealies, cucumbers and tomatoes.

Plant guide

Full sun and semi-shade

Moderately frost-hardy

Average water needs

Annual

Grows 30–40cm tall