Also known as Nasturtium · 77 saves
Tropaeolum
Tropaeolum, the genus most gardeners know as nasturtium. We track 4 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 4 most-saved Tropaeolum varieties
Species of Tropaeolum
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Tropaeolum in Sow
Save the Tropaeolum you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Tropaeolum
Whats common across all Tropaeolum varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 4 most-grown of them.
The Tropaeolum year
- PlantApril and May100% of varieties
Sow seeds directly or transplant seedlings after the danger of frost has passed
- HarvestMay–September100% of varieties
Harvest flowers, leaves, and green seed pods (capers) regularly
- Check for PestsMay–July100% of varieties
Watch for aphids, especially on new growth; treat with insecticidal soap
- FertilizeMay75% of varieties
Fertilize sparingly with low-nitrogen feed; too much nitrogen reduces flowering
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Provide full sun for vibrant blooms
- Support climbing varieties with a trellis
- Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Prune to remove dead or damaged stems for better airflow
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Refrain from fertilizing in late fall
- Don't let soil dry out completely
- Don't let soil dry out completely between waterings
What goes wrong with Tropaeolum
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing and speckled leaves | Increase humidity and apply miticide if needed |
| Spider mites | Webbing on leaves and stippling damage | Increase humidity and use insecticidal soap |
| Powdery Mildew | White powder on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide |
| Root Rot | Wilting despite adequate watering | Ensure well-draining soil and reduce watering |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Ensure well-draining soil and reduce watering |
Making more Tropaeolum
Cuttings
- Take 4-inch softwood cuttings in late spring.
- Dip cuttings in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist potting mix and keep humid for 6 weeks.
Seed
- Sow seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost.
- Keep soil moist and maintain 65-75°F temperature.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors after frost danger passes.
Tropaeolum questions
How many types of Tropaeolum are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 4 distinct Tropaeolum varieties. The most popular — ranked by 77 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Tropaeolum grow in?
Across its varieties, Tropaeolum covers USDA Zones 5–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Tropaeolum bloom?
Most Tropaeolum varieties bloom in summer to fall, mid-summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Tropaeolum should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.