Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Nasturtium on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Tropaeolaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Nasturtium
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a fast-growing annual plant, valued for its vibrant, edible flowers and rounded leaves. Its flowers, ranging from yellow to orange and red, along with its peppery leaves, make it ideal for garden borders, hanging baskets, or as an edible ground cover. It attracts pollinators and can be used to add a touch of color and flavor to salads.
Native range
Andes of South America, from central Colombia to Bolivia
Care tips
Nasturtiums require full sun for abundant flowering, though they can tolerate some partial shade in very hot climates. They prefer well-drained, not overly rich soils; poor soil can encourage more flowers than foliage. Water regularly to keep the substrate slightly moist, but avoid waterlogging, as they are susceptible to root rot. A common mistake is over-fertilizing, which promotes leaf growth at the expense of flowering.
How to save a dying Nasturtium
- Warning signs
- Yellow or wilted leaves, soft stems, no flowers. May have aphids or spider mites.
- First aid
- Check watering (moist but not soggy soil). Look for pests and treat with insecticidal soap. Move to partial shade if sun is too strong.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot), intense direct sun (burns leaves), or complete lack of water.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! Nasturtiums are resilient. With quick adjustments to watering, light, and pest control, it usually recovers well.