Trailing Nasturtium: How to Grow and Care for Trailing Nasturtiums

Trailing nasturtiums are fast-growing, colourful annual plants that spill beautifully over pots, hanging baskets, raised beds, and walls. Known for their long, flowing stems and bright flowers, trailing nasturtiums are perfect for adding movement, colour, and edible interest to gardens with very little effort.

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Nasturtiums are cheerful, edible flowers with bright colours and peppery taste — easy to grow in beds, containers, and hanging baskets.

• Nasturtium Seed Collection (Mixed Colours)
A mix of vibrant nasturtium seeds — perfect for sowing directly outdoors or under cover early in the season.
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• Nasturtium Plug Plants / Young Seedlings
Healthy young nasturtium plants ready to transplant into borders or containers for instant summer colour.
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• Well-Draining Flower & Annual Compost
Light, nutrient-balanced compost ideal for nurturing nasturtium roots and encouraging healthy growth.
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• Grow Lights for Early Sowing
Bright LED grow lights that help keep indoors-sown nasturtiums strong and stocky before planting outside.
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• Decorative Pots & Planters for Nasturtiums
Attractive containers that show off nasturtium blooms on patios, balconies, or windowsills.
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Easy to grow and ideal for UK conditions, trailing nasturtiums suit beginners, allotments, balconies, and wildlife-friendly gardens.

What Is a Trailing Nasturtium?

A trailing nasturtium is a variety of nasturtium bred to produce long, flexible stems that spread and cascade rather than form compact mounds. They are not true climbers, but their stems can trail freely or be gently trained through supports.

Key features include:

  • Long, trailing growth
  • Rounded, shield-shaped leaves
  • Bright flowers in red, orange, yellow, and cream
  • Vigorous, spreading habit

All parts of the plant are edible.

How Long Do Trailing Nasturtiums Grow?

Trailing nasturtiums typically grow:

  • 1.5–3 metres long, depending on variety and growing conditions

They are ideal for covering large areas quickly or softening hard edges.

When to Sow Trailing Nasturtiums (UK)

Trailing nasturtiums are frost tender and should be sown in spring.

  • Sow indoors: March to April
  • Sow outdoors: Late April to May
  • Flowering period: June to October

Outdoor sowing should only take place once the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed.

How to Sow Trailing Nasturtium Seeds

Seeds are large and easy to handle.

Indoor sowing

  • Sow one seed per pot
  • Plant seeds about 2cm deep
  • Keep in a bright, frost-free place

Outdoor sowing

  • Sow directly where plants will grow
  • Space seeds 25–30cm apart
  • Protect seedlings from slugs

Soaking seeds overnight can help speed up germination.

Best Position for Trailing Nasturtiums

Trailing nasturtiums grow best in:

  • Full sun
  • Free-draining soil
  • Poor to moderately fertile ground

Avoid rich soil and fertiliser, as this encourages lots of leaf growth but fewer flowers.

They are ideal for:

  • Hanging baskets
  • Large containers
  • Raised beds
  • Walls and edges
  • Allotments

Growing Trailing Nasturtiums in Pots

Trailing nasturtiums are especially well suited to containers.

For best results:

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March is when the growing season truly begins. Seeds are being sown daily, beds are prepared and late frosts are still possible — these essentials help produce strong plants and a successful start.

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Seed & Cutting Compost — essential for healthy seedlings and strong root growth. 👉 Click here to see top options

Garden Fleece & Plant Protection Covers — protects seedlings, potatoes and early plantings from late frost. 👉 Click here to see top options

Spring Vegetable Seeds — carrots, beetroot, peas, spinach and salads can all be started now. 👉 Click here to see top options

Garden Kneeler & Seat — makes long sowing and planting sessions far more comfortable. 👉 Click here to see top options

Pressure Washer (Greenhouse & Patio Cleaning) — clean patios, paths and greenhouses before planting. 👉 Click here to see top options

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  • Use large pots or baskets with good drainage
  • Avoid nutrient-rich compost
  • Allow stems to spill naturally over edges

They create a dramatic cascading effect as they grow.

Watering and Feeding

Trailing nasturtiums are low maintenance.

  • Water regularly while young
  • Once established, water sparingly
  • Do not feed with fertiliser

Too much water or feed reduces flowering and weakens growth.

Flowering and Ongoing Care

Trailing nasturtiums usually flower:

  • From early summer until the first frost

To keep plants flowering:

  • Deadhead spent blooms
  • Pick flowers regularly
  • Avoid letting seeds form too early

Are Trailing Nasturtiums Edible?

Yes. All parts are edible.

  • Leaves: Peppery, similar to watercress
  • Flowers: Mild, decorative, slightly sweet
  • Seeds: Can be pickled and used like capers

Harvesting regularly encourages fresh growth.

Are Trailing Nasturtiums Good for Wildlife?

Yes. Trailing nasturtiums are excellent for wildlife-friendly gardens.

They:

  • Attract bees and pollinators
  • Provide dense shelter
  • Act as trap plants for aphids

They are often grown near vegetables to help protect crops.

Common Problems With Trailing Nasturtiums

Lots of leaves, few flowers

  • Soil too rich
  • Excess feeding

Weak or floppy growth

  • Too much shade
  • Overwatering

Aphids
Common but often useful as a trap plant.

Do Trailing Nasturtiums Self-Seed?

Yes. If seeds are left to mature:

  • They drop naturally
  • New plants may appear the following year

Self-seeded plants often grow strongly.

Are Trailing Nasturtiums Suitable for Beginners?

Absolutely. They are:

  • Easy to grow from seed
  • Fast growing
  • Low maintenance
  • Highly rewarding

Perfect for UK gardens, balconies, and allotments.

Final Thoughts on Trailing Nasturtiums

Trailing nasturtiums are one of the easiest ways to add cascading colour and edible value to a garden. Whether grown in hanging baskets, pots, or raised beds, they provide months of flowers with very little care.

For a cheerful, versatile, and productive plant, trailing nasturtiums are a superb choice.

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