Empress of India Nasturtium seeds
The Empress of India separates itself with its deep intense burgundy hue. The leaves are an intense dark greenish blue that only assists in boosting the dramatic reds held by the 2.5-inch blooms. This old Victorian heirloom was grown for its beauty, edible qualities, and garden benefits. Like all nasturtiums, this variety is edible. The leaves and the blooms can be consumed. They have a high vitamin C content and taste very similar to radishes. The blooms and leaves are ideal for salads, garnishes, and on sandwiches.
This variety trails slightly, making it a great candidate for hanging baskets or as a ground cover. These are also stunning in window boxes (which is where we grow ours). In the garden, this help lures away leaf miners while deterring cabbage worms and white flies.
Seed count: 20
Botanic name:
Tropaeolum nanum
Plant spacing:
10-12 inches between plants
Color:
Red blooms
Sowing depth:
1/2 inch - 1 inch
Sun requirements:
Full
Utilization:
Hanging baskets, container planting, blooms and leaves can be used in salads and on sandwhiches. These are also a good deterent for leaf miners and other pests.
Frost hardy:
No
Maturity days:
55-60 days
Life cycle:a
Annual
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Indian cress, flame flower
Vine Habit:
Growing Instructions:
Starting Indoors:
Timing: Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost in your area.
Soaking: Soak the seeds in water for 4-8 hours to encourage germination.
Containers & Soil: Use biodegradable pots or seed starting trays filled with seed starting mix.
Planting: Plant seeds about 1/2 inch deep, 2 seeds per pot.
Conditions: Place pots in a warm (70-75°F) location with plenty of sunlight or under grow lights. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Thinning: Once seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, thin to one seedling per pot.
Hardening Off: Before transplanting outdoors, gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions over a period of 7-10 days. Start by placing them in a sheltered spot outdoors for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the duration of exposure.
Transplanting Outdoors:
Timing: Transplant after the danger of frost has passed and seedlings have been hardened off.
Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Nasturtiums tolerate poor soil but prefer it to be slightly acidic.
Spacing: Space plants 10-12 inches apart.
Planting: Carefully transplant seedlings, being mindful not to disturb the roots. Water well after transplanting.
Direct Sowing Outdoors:
Timing: Sow seeds directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed.
Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
Planting: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and 10-12 inches apart. Water well after sowing.
Thinning: Once seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, thin to one seedling every 10-12 inches.
Additional Tips:
Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing: Nasturtiums don't require heavy fertilization. You can fertilize them once or twice during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Deadheading: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Pests & Diseases: Nasturtiums are generally pest and disease resistant. However, they can be susceptible to aphids and powdery mildew. Monitor plants regularly and take action if necessary.
Enjoy your vibrant and edible Nasturtiums!
Please remember that specific planting and transplanting dates will depend on your local climate and the last expected frost date in your area. You can consult a local gardening resource or use an online planting calendar to determine the best timing for your location.
