Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus nanum Empress of India) - Nothing is more cheery and delightful than these popular annuals growing in the flower garden! They are easy to establish from seeds, and they are reliable for a great display every summer through fall. Many varieties have been derived from Tropaeolum Majus, including climbing, dwarf, and bushy plants. The Empress of India are compact and great for borders, pots, hanging baskets, or other containers. The leaves are an attractive blue-green color with beautiful, scarlet red blossoms that keep blooming until the first frost. All parts of the plant have a peppery taste, similar to arugula or water cress. In ancient times, this large flower seed was even ground up and was used as pepper. Another name for the plant is Nasturtium Indian Cress.

Empress of India nasturtium care is simple: no fertilizer is needed, and regular irrigation is good but the soil can dry out in-between irrigations. These vining climbers are used as companion plants for the vegetable garden. It is said that the peppery-flavored leaves ward off many insects. Tropaeolum Majus plants will grow anywhere as an annual, but they will only survive as a perennial in frost-free zones.

SOWING:
Season: Annual
Height: 40 cm (15 inches)
Bloom Season: Mid summer through autumn
Bloom Color: Scarlet (very dark foliage)
Environment: Full sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, pH 6.1 - 7.8
Germination temperature: 20C (68F)
Depth: 1.5cm (1/2 inch)
Moisture: Keep seeds moist until germination
Plant Spacing: 15 - 20 cm (6 - 8 inches)

It is recommend to directly sow seeds outdoors in spring. The seedlings do not always transplant well into the garden when started indoors. Before sowing the flower seed, soak the seeds overnight in warm water. The next day, plant the seeds 1.5cm (1/2 inch) deep in an area that gets at least 6 hours of direct sun each day.