Nasturtium Milkmaid

Nasturtium Milkmaid: variety and characteristics

Nasturtium Milkmaid (Tropaeolum majus) is an annual flower of the nasturtium family (Tropaeolaceae). An annual with overlapping, climbing shoots up to 3 m long. From July to autumn it flowers with many cup-like, single creamy-white blooms.

An extremely easy plant to grow, used to cover arbours, balconies and fences.

Sow the seeds in spring for a long summer and autumn display.

Nasturtium is a cheerful and fully edible flower: the flowers and leaves have a spicy, cress-like taste and decorate salads. The dwarf varieties are for borders and pots, the climbing ones cover fences.

Key features

• Measured germination rate of the batch: 92%
• Seeds per packet: 6–9 pcs (1 g)
• Seed origin: India
• Sowing: February and March; direct
• Flowering: July – October
• Position: sunny spot

When to sow Nasturtium Milkmaid

Nasturtium Milkmaid seeds are sown in February and March. The plants flower from July to October. The months are a guide for a temperate climate — in warmer areas sow 1–2 weeks earlier, in cooler or upland areas, later.

How to sow and grow Nasturtium Milkmaid

• Sowing method: direct
• Depth: 2 cm
• Spacing: 25–30 cm (dwarf), 40–50 cm (climbing)
• Germination: 7–14 days at 15–20 °C
• Position: sunny spot

It is recommended to sow the seeds directly outdoors in spring. Seedlings do not always transplant well into the garden when started indoors. Before sowing nasturtium seeds, soak the seeds overnight in warm water. The next day, plant the flower seed 1/2 cm deep in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sun every day. Work the soil so that it is fine and light. Flowers will appear 8 - 12 weeks after sowing.

Sow directly after the last frosts; soak the seeds for a few hours. Do not fertilise: in rich soil nasturtium produces leaves instead of flowers.

Flowering and uses

The flowers, leaves and green seeds are edible, for salads, sandwiches and "fake capers".

Frequently asked questions

When should Nasturtium Milkmaid be sown?

The recommended sowing months are February and March. Sowing method: direct.

How many seeds are in the packet?

The packet contains 6–9 seeds, pack size 1 g.

What is the germination rate of the seeds?

The measured germination rate of this batch is 92%. The test was carried out under controlled laboratory conditions; in the field, emergence depends on soil, temperature and moisture.

Is nasturtium edible?

Yes: the flowers and leaves have a sharp, cress-like taste, and the green seeds can be pickled like capers.

Why is my nasturtium not flowering?

The soil is too rich or it has been fed with nitrogen. Nasturtium flowers best in poorer soil in the sun.