Nasturtium as a Companion Plant: How to Use Them in Your Garden

Oleh Anonymous July 18, 2022 Post a Comment

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If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-grow plant to add to your garden, consider using nasturtiums. Not only are they visually appealing, but they also provide numerous benefits to other plants in their vicinity. In this blog post, we'll explore the different ways in which nasturtiums can be used as companion plants, and why you should consider including them in your garden.

The Benefits of Nasturtiums as a Companion Plant

Nasturtiums have several benefits when used as companion plants. Here are some of the most notable ones:

Insect Control

One of the primary benefits of nasturtiums is their ability to attract beneficial insects to the garden. The flowers of nasturtiums produce nectar, which attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Additionally, nasturtiums contain compounds that repel certain pests, such as aphids and spider mites. By planting nasturtiums near other plants, you can help control pest populations and promote a healthier garden ecosystem.

Soil Improvement

Nasturtiums are also valuable for improving soil health. They have a deep root system that helps break up compacted soil, allowing water and nutrients to penetrate more easily. Additionally, nasturtiums are known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. This means that they convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that other plants can use. By planting nasturtiums in your garden, you can improve soil fertility and promote better growth in other plants.

Companion Planting

Finally, nasturtiums are valuable as companion plants because they can be planted alongside a variety of other plants. They are known to improve the growth and flavor of certain vegetables, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and radishes. By planting nasturtiums near these plants, you can enhance their growth and yield.

How to Use Nasturtiums in Your Garden

Now that we've explored the benefits of nasturtiums, let's delve into how to use them effectively in your garden.

Planting Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are easy to grow from seed and can be sown directly in the ground after the last frost. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. When planting, space the seeds 10-12 inches apart and cover with a thin layer of soil. Water regularly until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 7-10 days.

Companion Planting with Nasturtiums

When planting nasturtiums as companion plants, consider pairing them with vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes. These plants will benefit from the pest-repelling properties of nasturtiums and may see an improvement in growth and yield. Additionally, nasturtiums make great companion plants for herbs like parsley, thyme, and sage.

Nasturtium Recipes

In addition to being visually appealing, nasturtiums are also edible. The leaves and flowers have a slightly peppery taste and can be used in salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. Try adding nasturtium leaves and flowers to your next salad or using them as a garnish on a soup or appetizer.

Harvesting Nasturtium Seeds

If you'd like to save nasturtium seeds for future planting, allow the flowers to dry out on the plant. Once the petals have fallen off, the seed pods will begin to turn brown and dry up. Remove the pods from the plant and store them in a cool, dry place until you're ready to plant them.

FAQs Section

Q: Can nasturtiums be grown in containers?

A: Yes, nasturtiums can be grown in containers as long as they have sufficient drainage and receive enough sunlight.

Q: Do nasturtiums attract any harmful insects?

A: While nasturtiums are generally beneficial for pest control, they may attract caterpillars that feed on their leaves. However, these pests are not usually a significant problem and can be controlled with organic insecticides if necessary.

Q: Are there any specific types of nasturtiums that are better for companion planting?

A: While all varieties of nasturtiums provide benefits as companion plants, dwarf varieties are often preferred because they take up less space and have a neater appearance.

Q: How often should I water my nasturtiums?

A: Nasturtiums prefer well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.

Q: Can nasturtiums be grown year-round?

A: Nasturtiums are annual plants and typically only grow for one season. However, they reseed easily and can continue to grow in subsequent years if allowed to self-seed.

Nasturtiums are a valuable addition to any garden, providing numerous benefits as companion plants. By attracting beneficial insects, improving soil health, and enhancing the growth and yield of other plants, nasturtiums can help create a healthier and more productive garden ecosystem. Additionally, their edible leaves and flowers make them a versatile and attractive option for culinary use.