So you want to grow nasturtiums in the city? Easy. The cheerful and resilient Nasturtium - the gardener's secret weapon for natural pest control or harvesting adorable edible leaves and flowers. You’re going to love growing these low maintenance beauties because they are drought tolerant, so no stress on your watering constraints. Their many different colors will elevate your take out sushi with ease.
Nasturtiums need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Indoors: Can be grown in pots with bright light or hydroponically using grow lights for 10-12 hours.
Keep soil consistently moist. Indoors, monitor soil moisture frequently; outdoors, water regularly, especially in full sun conditions. Mulching helps retain moisture.
Nasturtiums are a cool weather crop and prefer 55-75°F, ideally 60-65°F. Plant outdoors in early spring in NYC zone 7b. Cool temperatures encourage lush foliage and blooms.
Indoors: 8-10" wide, 10" deep, 2 gallons; Outdoors: 10-12" wide, 10-12" deep, 3-5 gallons
Nasturtiums prefer well-draining potting mix with compost from kitchen scraps or well-rotted manure.
Apply balanced, water-soluble fertilizer 10-10-10 every 4-6 weeks. Organic options: compost, fish emulsion, bone meal. Consistent fertilization promotes healthy foliage and prolific blooming.
Nasturtiums are ready for harvest 50-70 days after planting, or when the flowers are fully open. Regular harvesting encourages more blooms.
Pick flowers frequently to encourage more blooms. Regular harvesting helps maintain plant health and ensures a supply of peppery, colorful flowers.
Yellow Leaves: Ensure good drainage, moderate watering. Pests (Aphids): Spray with soapy water or neem oil. Wilting: Water consistently, avoid waterlogging. Slow Growth: Use balanced fertilizer. Diseases (Powdery Mildew): Improve air circulation, use fungicide.
There are around 10-15 varieties of arugula gardeners commonly grow. One of the perks of growing arugula at home is the opportunity to experiment with different varieties that you won't find at the grocery store.
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