How to Grow Nasturtium from Seed (Easy Step-by-Step Guide)
Growing nasturtium from seed is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to add colour, edible flowers, and wildlife value to your garden. Nasturtiums are fast-growing, low-maintenance plants that thrive in UK conditions and are perfect for beginners, pots, borders, hanging baskets, and allotments.
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Nasturtiums are cheerful, edible flowers with bright colours and peppery taste — easy to grow in beds, containers, and hanging baskets.
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This guide explains exactly how to grow nasturtiums from seed, from sowing and planting to care and harvesting.
Why Grow Nasturtiums from Seed?
Nasturtiums are ideal seed-grown plants because they:
- Germinate quickly
- Grow fast with minimal care
- Flower for months
- Thrive in poor soil
- Are fully edible
- Attract pollinators
They also dislike root disturbance, so growing from seed gives the strongest, healthiest plants.
When to Grow Nasturtium from Seed (UK)
Nasturtiums are frost tender, so timing matters.
- Sow indoors: March to April
- Sow outdoors: Late April to May
- Flowering: June to October
Outdoor sowing should only be done once all risk of frost has passed.
How to Sow Nasturtium Seeds Indoors
Starting indoors gives earlier flowers.
You will need:
- Nasturtium seeds
- Small pots (one seed per pot)
- Multipurpose compost
Steps:
- Fill pots with compost
- Sow one seed per pot
- Push seed about 2cm deep
- Water gently
- Place in a bright, frost-free spot
Seeds usually germinate in 7–14 days.
Harden seedlings off gradually before planting outside.
How to Sow Nasturtium Seeds Outdoors
Direct sowing is simple and works very well.
Steps:
- Choose a sunny position
- Ensure soil is warm and free-draining
- Sow seeds 2cm deep
- Space seeds 20–30cm apart
- Water lightly
Protect young seedlings from slugs.
Should You Soak Nasturtium Seeds?
Soaking is optional but helpful.
- Soak seeds in water for 8–12 hours
- Softens the hard seed coat
- Can speed up germination
Do not soak longer than 24 hours.
Best Place to Grow Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums grow best in:
- Full sun
- Free-draining soil
- Poor to moderately fertile ground
Avoid rich soil and fertiliser — too much nutrition causes leafy growth and fewer flowers.
They grow well in:
- Pots and containers
- Hanging baskets
- Raised beds
- Borders
- Allotments
Watering Nasturtiums
- Water regularly while plants establish
- Once established, water sparingly
- Avoid waterlogged soil
Nasturtiums are drought tolerant once settled.
Do Nasturtiums Need Feeding?
No. Nasturtiums do not need fertiliser.
- Feeding reduces flowering
- Poor soil produces better blooms
If grown in pots, a very light feed may be used sparingly, but it is usually unnecessary.
How Long Do Nasturtiums Take to Flower?
Nasturtiums usually flower:
- 8–10 weeks after sowing
Warm weather speeds growth significantly.
Deadheading and Ongoing Care
To keep nasturtiums flowering:
- Remove faded flowers regularly
- Pick flowers often
- Avoid letting seeds form too early
This encourages continuous blooming.
Do Nasturtiums Self-Seed?
Yes. If flowers are left to set seed:
- Seeds drop naturally
- New plants may appear the following spring
This can make nasturtiums seem perennial.
Common Problems When Growing Nasturtiums from Seed
Lots of leaves, few flowers
- Soil too rich
- Overfeeding
Poor germination
- Soil too cold
- Seeds planted too early
Weak growth
- Too much shade
- Overwatering
Are Nasturtiums Good for Beginners?
Absolutely. Nasturtiums are one of the best plants for beginner gardeners.
They:
- Grow quickly
- Need minimal care
- Are forgiving of mistakes
- Produce edible leaves and flowers
They are also great for children and first-time gardeners.
Final Thoughts: Growing Nasturtium from Seed
Growing nasturtium from seed is simple, reliable, and hugely rewarding. With minimal effort, you’ll enjoy months of bright flowers, edible leaves, and pollinator activity. Whether grown in pots, borders, or hanging baskets, nasturtiums prove that great garden results don’t need complicated techniques.