The Story
Plant Bio
Tropaeolum majus is a tender perennial, usually grown as an annual, with rounded leaves and showy, five-petaled flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
The flowers and leaves have a peppery flavor and are often used in salads.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Annual
Height
12 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Annual
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds ¼ inch deep into moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist for vigorous growth.
- Provide support like trellises for climbing varieties.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season.
- Pinch back early growth to encourage bushier plants.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and provide ample sunlight for vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
- Pinch back to promote bushier growth
- Support climbing varieties with trellises
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t neglect support for climbing types
- Refrain from fertilizing in late fall
- Avoid planting in heavily shaded areas
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Nasturtium questions
What zones can Nasturtium grow in?
Nasturtium is hardy in USDA Zone 10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Nasturtium deer resistant?
Yes — Nasturtium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Nasturtium bloom?
Nasturtium typically blooms in summer to fall through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Nasturtium need full sun?
Nasturtium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Tropaeolum to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Nasturtium with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.