Companion Plant Nasturtium: A Guide to Growing and Benefits

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What is Companion Plant Nasturtium?

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a beautiful, easy-to-grow flowering plant that also has many benefits as a companion plant in the garden. Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together for mutual benefit. In the case of nasturtium, it serves as both a pest repellent and a trap crop, making it a great addition to any vegetable or herb garden.

The Benefits of Companion Planting with Nasturtium

Pest Repellent

One of the primary benefits of companion planting with nasturtium is its ability to repel pests. Nasturtium is particularly effective at repelling aphids, whiteflies, cucumber beetles, and squash bugs. The plant contains a compound called benzyl glucosinolate, which is toxic to many insects. Additionally, the peppery scent of the plant is unpleasant to many pests, making them less likely to stick around.

Trap Crop

In addition to repelling pests, nasturtium also serves as a trap crop. This means that it attracts certain pests away from other plants in the garden, protecting them from damage. For example, nasturtium is particularly attractive to black aphids. By planting nasturtium near other plants that are susceptible to aphid infestations, the nasturtium acts as a sacrificial crop, drawing the aphids away from the other plants.

Attract Beneficial Insects

Nasturtium also attracts beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and hoverflies. These insects are natural predators of many garden pests, and by attracting them to your garden, you can help keep pest populations under control.

Edible Flowers and Leaves

In addition to its benefits as a companion plant, nasturtium is also edible! Both the flowers and leaves have a peppery flavor and can be used in salads or as a garnish. They're also a good source of vitamin C.

How to Grow Nasturtium

Planting

Nasturtium is easy to grow from seed and can be sown directly in the ground where it will grow. The seeds should be planted about 1 inch deep and 10-12 inches apart. Nasturtium prefers well-drained soil and full sun.

Care

Once the plants have sprouted, they require very little care. Water them regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Nasturtium does not need fertilizer, as too much nitrogen can actually reduce flower production.

Harvesting

The flowers and leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season. Simply pinch off the flowers or leaves at their base. Be sure to leave some flowers on the plant, however, as this will encourage continued blooming.

Companion Planting with Nasturtium: What to Plant Together

Tomatoes

Nasturtium is a great companion plant for tomatoes, as it repels aphids, which are a common pest for both plants. Additionally, the vining nature of the tomato plant provides a trellis for the nasturtium to climb.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are another plant that benefits from companion planting with nasturtium. The nasturtium repels cucumber beetles, which are a common pest for cucumbers.

Herbs

Many herbs benefit from companion planting with nasturtium. For example, nasturtium can help repel aphids and whiteflies from basil and mint.

Nasturtium Varieties

Tall Climbing Nasturtium

This variety of nasturtium can grow up to 8 feet tall and is perfect for trellises or fences.

Dwarf Nasturtium

Dwarf nasturtium is a great choice for containers or small gardens, as it only grows to be about 12 inches tall.

Alaska Nasturtium

Alaska nasturtium has variegated leaves that add interest to any garden. It grows to be about 10-12 inches tall.

Tips for Growing Healthy Nasturtium Plants

Plant in Full Sun

Nasturtium prefers full sun, so make sure to plant it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Don't Overwater

Nasturtium does not like wet soil, so be careful not to overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Pinch Off Dead Flowers

To encourage continued blooming, pinch off dead flowers at their base.

Harvest Regularly

Regular harvesting will encourage the plant to produce more flowers and leaves.

FAQs

What pests does nasturtium repel?

Nasturtium is particularly effective at repelling aphids, whiteflies, cucumber beetles, and squash bugs.

How do I plant nasturtium?

Nasturtium is easy to grow from seed and can be sown directly in the ground. Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and 10-12 inches apart.

Can I eat nasturtium leaves and flowers?

Yes! Both the leaves and flowers of nasturtium are edible and have a peppery flavor.

What other plants can I companion plant with nasturtium?

Nasturtium is a great companion plant for tomatoes, cucumbers, and many herbs, such as basil and mint.

What varieties of nasturtium are available?

There are several different varieties of nasturtium available, including tall climbing nasturtium, dwarf nasturtium, and Alaska nasturtium.

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