'Dwarf Compact Mixed' Nasturtium Seeds

Days to Maturity: 55 to 60

The varieties in 'Dwarf Compact Mixed' Nasturtium are half-hardy annuals offering summer through fall interest, typically blooming until the first frost. The plant produces an abundance of funnel-shaped red, orange, and yellow flowers. Borne on long stalks, the spice-scented blooms attract butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden. The flowers and leaves are edible, having a mild, spicy flavor; and the peppery seedpods can be used similarly to capers or dried and ground for use as a culinary spice.

'Dwarf Compact Mixed' Nasturtium contains Tropaeolum majus varieties, also known as Indian Cress. The plants have a dwarf, bushy habit of rounded leaves and a fast growth rate. They fit nicely into small spaces but are shown to best effect when grouped or massed. They are ideal for containers and hanging baskets but also thrive in beds and borders and make an effective annual groundcover. Plants will self-seed in optimal conditions.

Easy to grow and tolerant of neglect, nasturtium prefers full sun and average, loamy or sandy, slightly acidic (6.5 to 7.5), well-drained soils, but they grow well in poor soil and tolerate dry soil. They grow best in mild climates with sunny, cool summers; so, in hot climates, some shade may be beneficial, especially in the afternoon. Nasturtiums are suitable for herb and vegetable gardens as they repel some harmful insects, such as aphids, and run interference for some pests, like slugs, attracting them away from vulnerable crops. Deer tend to leave them alone.

Direct sow nasturtium seeds in spring approximately one week after the last frost, or start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date, gradually acclimatize to outdoor conditions, and transplant after all threat of frost has passed.

If you plan to start your seeds indoors, be sure to check out our Bio Dome Seed Starter Kit. With the Bio Dome, you can control the temperature, light, and soil mix to ensure your seeds become strong for transplant.