Nasturtium Seeds

How to Germinate Nasturtium Seeds

🌼 Type: Annual

⏳ Germination Time: 7–14 days

📦 Supplies Needed

  • Nasturtium seeds

  • Pots, seed trays, or direct garden bed

  • Potting or seed-starting mix

  • Spray bottle or watering can

  • Bowl of water (for pre-soaking)

💧 Step 1: Pre-Soak the Seeds (Recommended)

Nasturtium seeds have a hard outer shell that benefits from soaking.

  • Soak seeds in warm water for 4–8 hours before planting.

  • This softens the shell and speeds up germination.

🌱 Step 2: Planting the Seeds

You can direct sow outdoors or start indoors 2–4 weeks before your last frost.

  1. Fill pots or trays with moist potting mix (well-drained, not too rich).

  2. Plant seeds ½ inch (1.25 cm) deep and cover lightly with soil.

  3. Space seeds 10–12 inches apart if planting directly in the garden.

🌡️ Step 3: Germination Conditions

  • Temperature: 55–70°F (13–21°C)

  • Light: Not required for germination (can be in darkness)

  • Moisture: Keep soil consistently moist, but not soggy

🌞 Step 4: After Germination

  • Seedlings appear in 7–14 days.

  • Once sprouts emerge, move pots to a bright, sunny spot or under grow lights.

  • No fertilizer needed early on — nasturtiums do better in lean soil.

🌿 Step 5: Transplanting

  • If grown indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost, once they’re 2–3 inches tall.

  • Harden them off by gradually exposing to outdoor conditions for 5–7 days.

  • Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil.

🪴 Growing Tips

  • Do not over-fertilize – this leads to lots of leaves and fewer flowers.

  • Great for containers, hanging baskets, or as ground cover.

  • Attracts pollinators and can repel aphids when companion planted with veggies.