How To Grow Nasturtium Indoors A Comprehensive Guide

Jul 25, 2025 by ADMIN 53 views

Hey guys! Are you looking to add a splash of color and a dash of spice to your indoor space? Look no further than the vibrant and versatile nasturtium! These cheerful plants, with their edible leaves and flowers, are a fantastic addition to any home. While they're known for their summer and fall blooms outdoors, you can totally enjoy them indoors year-round with the right care. Let's dive into the world of indoor nasturtium growing and discover how to cultivate these beauties in your very own home.

Why Grow Nasturtiums Indoors?

So, why should you consider growing nasturtiums indoors? Well, there are several awesome reasons! First off, you get to enjoy their beauty and usefulness regardless of the season. Imagine having fresh, peppery greens and vibrant blooms to brighten up your salads even in the dead of winter!

Year-Round Availability: This is a big one! By growing nasturtiums indoors, you escape the limitations of outdoor seasons. You can have a continuous supply of edible flowers and leaves, adding a unique zest to your culinary creations throughout the year.
Pest Control: Indoor gardening can sometimes be a battle against pests, but nasturtiums can actually help! They act as trap crops, attracting aphids and other unwanted critters away from your more vulnerable plants. It’s like having a natural bodyguard for your indoor garden!
Aesthetic Appeal: Let's not forget how gorgeous these plants are! With their bright, cheerful flowers in shades of orange, yellow, and red, and their uniquely shaped leaves, nasturtiums add a touch of beauty and whimsy to any indoor space. They're a natural mood booster!
Edible Delights: Nasturtiums are a culinary treasure! Both the leaves and flowers are edible, offering a peppery, slightly spicy flavor that's fantastic in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish. You can even pickle the seed pods for a caper-like treat.
Compact Growth: Many nasturtium varieties are well-suited for indoor growing due to their compact size and trailing habit. They can thrive in containers and even hanging baskets, making them a versatile choice for different spaces.

Choosing the Right Nasturtium Variety for Indoors

Okay, you're sold on growing nasturtiums indoors – awesome! But before you rush out and grab any old packet of seeds, let's talk about choosing the right variety. Not all nasturtiums are created equal, especially when it comes to indoor growing. Some varieties are bushier and more compact, making them ideal for containers, while others are vining and better suited for hanging baskets.

Bush Varieties: These are your best bet for growing in pots on windowsills or shelves. They tend to stay more compact and don't sprawl as much as vining varieties. Look for names like 'Alaska', 'Tom Thumb', or 'Empress of India'. These varieties offer a neat and tidy growth habit, perfect for smaller spaces. They produce a profusion of colorful flowers and are relatively easy to care for.
Vining Varieties: If you're dreaming of a cascading curtain of flowers, then vining nasturtiums are for you! These varieties are perfect for hanging baskets or for training up a small trellis. 'Jewel Mix' and 'Trailing Mix' are popular choices. Vining types can add a dramatic touch to your indoor garden, with their long stems and vibrant blooms spilling over the edges of containers. Just be sure to provide them with adequate support if you want them to climb.
Consider Flower Color: Nasturtiums come in a range of colors, from fiery oranges and reds to sunny yellows and creams. Think about the color scheme of your indoor space and choose varieties that will complement your existing décor. A mix of colors can add a playful touch, while sticking to a single color palette can create a more sophisticated look.
Seed vs. Seedlings: You can start nasturtiums from seed or purchase seedlings from a nursery. Starting from seed is a fun and economical option, but it requires a bit more patience. Seedlings will give you a head start, but they may be slightly more expensive. If you're new to gardening, seedlings might be a good choice to get you going.

Getting Started: Planting Your Indoor Nasturtiums

Alright, let's get our hands dirty! Now that you've chosen your variety, it's time to plant those nasturtium seeds or seedlings. This part is super important for setting your plants up for success. Don't worry, it's not rocket science – just follow these simple steps, and you'll be well on your way to a thriving indoor nasturtium garden.

Choosing the Right Pot: Selecting the appropriate container is crucial for your nasturtium's growth. Opt for a pot that's at least 6-8 inches in diameter to give the roots enough room to spread. Make sure the pot has drainage holes – this is essential to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Terra cotta pots are a great choice because they allow for good airflow and drainage, but plastic pots work well too. For vining varieties, consider using a hanging basket to showcase their trailing habit.
Soil Selection: Nasturtiums aren't too fussy about soil, but they do prefer well-draining soil. A good quality potting mix will do the trick. Avoid using garden soil, as it can be too heavy and may contain pests or diseases. You can also make your own potting mix by combining equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. This mixture provides excellent drainage and aeration for healthy root growth.
Sowing Seeds: If you're starting from seed, you can sow them directly into the pot. Nasturtium seeds are relatively large and easy to handle. Plant them about half an inch deep and an inch apart. Water gently after planting. You can also soak the seeds in water for a few hours before planting to speed up germination. Keep the soil moist but not soggy until the seeds sprout, which usually takes about 7-10 days.
Planting Seedlings: If you're using seedlings, gently remove them from their nursery pots and loosen the roots slightly. Dig a hole in the potting mix that's large enough to accommodate the root ball. Place the seedling in the hole and backfill with soil, gently firming it around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly after planting. Make sure to handle the seedlings with care to avoid damaging their delicate roots.
Location, Location, Location: Nasturtiums love sunlight, so choosing the right spot is key. Place your pot near a sunny window where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. A south-facing window is ideal, but an east- or west-facing window can also work. If you don't have a sunny window, you can supplement with a grow light. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers, so make sure your nasturtiums get plenty of sunshine.

Nasturtium Care: Sunlight, Water, and More

Okay, your nasturtiums are planted, and they're looking good! But the journey doesn't end there. To keep your plants happy and thriving indoors, you'll need to provide them with the right care. Think of it like taking care of a pet – they need food, water, and attention to stay healthy and vibrant. Let's break down the key elements of nasturtium care to ensure your indoor garden flourishes.

Sunlight: As we mentioned earlier, sunlight is crucial for nasturtiums. These plants are sun-worshippers and need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to bloom profusely. A sunny windowsill is the perfect spot. If you notice your plants are looking leggy (long stems with few leaves) or not producing many flowers, it's a sign they're not getting enough light. Consider moving them to a sunnier location or supplementing with a grow light. A simple fluorescent or LED grow light can make a big difference, especially during the darker winter months.
Watering: Nasturtiums like consistently moist soil, but they don't like to be waterlogged. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. When you water, do it thoroughly, making sure the water drains out of the bottom of the pot. Empty any excess water that collects in the saucer to prevent the roots from sitting in water. The frequency of watering will depend on factors like temperature, humidity, and the size of your pot, so check the soil moisture regularly.
Fertilizing: Nasturtiums are not heavy feeders, so you don't need to fertilize them too often. In fact, too much fertilizer can lead to lush foliage but fewer flowers. A light feeding every 4-6 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer is usually sufficient. Look for a fertilizer with a balanced N-P-K ratio (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium). Avoid fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, as this can encourage leafy growth at the expense of blooms. Organic fertilizers, like compost tea or fish emulsion, are also good options.
Pruning and Deadheading: Pruning and deadheading are important for maintaining the shape of your plants and encouraging more blooms. Regularly remove any yellowing or dead leaves, as well as spent flowers. This will help keep your plants looking tidy and prevent diseases. Deadheading (removing faded flowers) encourages the plant to produce more blooms, as it prevents it from putting energy into seed production. Simply snip off the flower stem just below the flower head.
Pest Control: While nasturtiums can act as trap crops, they can also attract pests themselves. Keep an eye out for aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. If you spot any pests, you can try washing them off with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap. Avoid using harsh chemicals indoors, as they can be harmful to you and your plants. Regular inspection of your plants will help you catch any pest infestations early on, making them easier to control.

Harvesting and Using Nasturtiums

One of the best things about growing nasturtiums is that you can actually eat them! Both the leaves and flowers have a peppery, slightly spicy flavor that's delicious in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish. The seed pods can even be pickled and used as a caper substitute. Harvesting your nasturtiums is easy and fun, and it encourages the plant to produce more. Let's explore how to harvest and use these delightful edible plants.

Harvesting Leaves: You can start harvesting nasturtium leaves as soon as the plant has enough foliage to spare. Simply snip off the leaves with scissors or pinch them off with your fingers. The leaves have the best flavor when they're young and tender. Harvest them in the morning, when their flavor is most intense. Use the leaves fresh in salads, sandwiches, or as a garnish for soups and other dishes. They add a peppery kick and a beautiful green color to any plate.
Harvesting Flowers: Nasturtium flowers are not only beautiful but also delicious! Harvest them when they're fully open and brightly colored. The flowers have a slightly milder flavor than the leaves, but they still offer a peppery bite. Use them to garnish salads, desserts, and cocktails, or stuff them with cheese or other fillings for a tasty appetizer. The flowers also make a stunning addition to a floral arrangement. Their vibrant colors and unique shape add a touch of whimsy and elegance.
Harvesting Seed Pods: If you allow some of your nasturtium flowers to go to seed, you can harvest the seed pods for pickling. The seed pods are ready to harvest when they're still green and plump. Pick them when they're about the size of a pea. To pickle the seed pods, simply brine them in a mixture of vinegar, water, salt, and spices. They make a delicious caper substitute and add a tangy, peppery flavor to various dishes.
Using Nasturtiums in the Kitchen: The possibilities for using nasturtiums in the kitchen are endless! Get creative and experiment with different ways to incorporate them into your meals. Add the leaves and flowers to salads for a peppery kick, or use them as a garnish for soups and other dishes. Stuff the flowers with cheese or other fillings for a tasty appetizer. Use the leaves to make a pesto, or add them to stir-fries and other cooked dishes. The seed pods can be pickled and used as a caper substitute. Nasturtiums are a versatile and flavorful addition to any cuisine.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with the best care, you might encounter some challenges while growing nasturtiums indoors. Pests, diseases, and environmental issues can sometimes pop up, but don't worry! With a little knowledge and troubleshooting, you can overcome these hurdles and keep your plants healthy and thriving. Let's take a look at some common problems and how to solve them.

Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can infest nasturtiums and other plants. They often cluster on the undersides of leaves and stems. If you spot aphids, you can try washing them off with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap. You can also introduce beneficial insects, like ladybugs, which are natural predators of aphids. Regular inspection of your plants will help you catch any aphid infestations early on.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are another common pest that can affect nasturtiums. These tiny, white, flying insects suck sap from the plants, causing them to weaken and yellow. You can control whiteflies with insecticidal soap or by using yellow sticky traps. Make sure to treat the undersides of the leaves, where the whiteflies tend to congregate. Good air circulation can also help prevent whitefly infestations.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that can cause damage to nasturtiums. They suck sap from the leaves, causing them to develop a stippled appearance. In severe infestations, you may see fine webbing on the plants. You can control spider mites with insecticidal soap or by increasing humidity around the plants. Spider mites thrive in dry conditions, so misting your plants regularly can help prevent infestations.
Leggy Growth: Leggy growth (long stems with few leaves) is often a sign that your nasturtiums are not getting enough light. Move your plants to a sunnier location or supplement with a grow light. Pruning the leggy stems can also help encourage bushier growth.
Lack of Blooms: If your nasturtiums are producing plenty of foliage but few flowers, it could be due to several factors. Insufficient light is a common cause, as is over-fertilizing with nitrogen. Make sure your plants are getting at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day and avoid using fertilizers that are high in nitrogen. Deadheading spent flowers can also encourage more blooms.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Growing nasturtiums indoors is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. These cheerful plants not only brighten up your home but also offer a unique culinary treat. With the right care and attention, you can enjoy a continuous supply of edible flowers and leaves throughout the year. So go ahead, give it a try, and add a touch of spice and beauty to your indoor garden! Happy growing, guys!