Guide to growing Annual Nasturtium - Tropaeolum
Plants that belong to the Tropaeolum genus may be annual or perennial; this section deals with how to grow hardy annual Tropaeolum; go here for information on planting Perennial Tropaeolum.
Some of the common names for Tropaeolum include Nasturtium, Scottish flame flower, Empress of India, Indian Cress and Canary Creeper. Latin names include tropaeolum tuberosum and nasturtium officinale.
Tropaeolum comes into bloom from summer to autumn and carry trumpet shaped flowers, these are a little unusual due to having long spurs; the nasturtium flowers may be orange, red or yellow.
Growing Nasturtiums
It is best to sow Nasturtium seeds in their final location, whether this be in a container, or in the garden itself; do this about a week after the last frost.
The Nasturtium seeds should be sown at a depth of about 6mm into a slightly acidic soil, that is moist and has good drainage. Nasturtium likes to grow in an area of the garden that is sunny. Depending on the species annual Tropaeolum should be spaced at 20cm (small), 35cm (medium sized) or 60 to 90cm (large Tropaeolum).
Nasturtium Care
Annual Tropaeolum species such as Nasturtium and Canary creeper are climbers so supply a trellis or similar that they can grow on. They like moist soil so keep well watered. They should not be fertilized as this results in poorer flowering. If you require more plants then Propagate Tropaeolum by taking cuttings.