I’ll admit, nasturtiums weren’t the first flowers I imagined when I set out to add a splash of colour to my garden. But after a friend gave me a packet of seeds, claiming these little beauties were worth every bit of soil space, I decided to give them a go. Little did I know they’d become some of my absolute favourites – and not just because they’re pretty!
Nasturtiums are like little garden heroes with a surprising array of benefits. Here are seven reasons I now recommend every gardener grows nasturtiums – they’re way more than just good looks!
1. They’re Almost Effortless to Grow
One of my favourite things about nasturtiums is how wonderfully unfussy they are. I’m no stranger to the occasional failed plant experiment, so I appreciate flowers that aren’t too demanding. All they need is a bit of decent soil (though they even tolerate poor soil) and regular watering. They even grow well in partial shade, making them incredibly versatile for any garden spot.
Once you sow those seeds, they practically take care of themselves. It’s a genuine joy to watch them grow and spread without constant maintenance – perfect if you’re someone who doesn’t want to fuss over your plants every day.
2. A Natural Pest Repellent
Here’s a surprising little trick: nasturtiums act as natural pest deterrents! I used to have issues with aphids and caterpillars munching on my more delicate plants. But since planting nasturtiums, they’ve taken on the role of “sacrificial plant.”
Aphids and other pests are so attracted to nasturtiums that they tend to ignore other plants nearby. It’s like having a bodyguard in the garden – nasturtiums lure pests away from my prized roses and veggies. And if the nasturtiums take a bit of damage? No worries, they bounce back quickly.
3. They’re Edible and Delicious
One of the biggest surprises for me was learning that nasturtium flowers and leaves are edible. The peppery taste reminds me a bit of rocket or watercress, and it adds such a fun twist to salads, sandwiches, or even as a garnish. I now love tossing a few bright petals on my plate – they add colour and a unique, fresh flavour.
Plus, they’re packed with nutrients! They’re high in vitamin C, so not only do they look pretty on my plate, but they also give my immune system a boost. For anyone interested in edible gardening, nasturtiums are a must-have.
4. Incredible for Soil Health
This was a game-changer for me. Nasturtiums aren’t just surface-level pretty; they do wonders for the soil, too. I read up on this and found out they’re excellent “green manure.” Essentially, as they grow, they help improve the soil by adding organic matter when they die back.
They also have deep roots that help break up compact soil, making it easier for other plants to thrive. So, even if you’re looking to add nutrients to your garden beds or improve the soil’s texture, nasturtiums have your back. It’s like having a little eco-friendly garden assistant.
5. Attract Pollinators Like Bees and Butterflies
Nasturtiums are brilliant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which are crucial for a healthy garden. Watching the bees buzzing around and butterflies stopping by feels like a mini wildlife show in my own backyard.
The bright colours and rich nectar draw in these friendly pollinators, which means my other flowering plants benefit, too. The first time I noticed how many bees flocked to the nasturtiums, I knew I was onto something magical. It’s a simple way to encourage more life and biodiversity in the garden.
6. They’re Gorgeous and Come in Vibrant Colours
Let’s be honest: nasturtiums are simply beautiful. Their vibrant flowers come in shades of red, orange, yellow, and even pink, adding pops of colour that catch your eye from across the garden. I sometimes plant them in pots and let them trail over the edges, where they look like flowing bursts of colour.
They’re perfect for filling in gaps or brightening up corners, and they never fail to bring a smile to my face. Each bloom feels like a little gift, especially when they start blooming in early summer and keep going strong until autumn.
7. Perfect for Companion Planting
If you’re into companion planting (or if you’re curious about giving it a go), nasturtiums make an ideal choice. They pair beautifully with vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and beans. I’ve found that my veggie garden is so much healthier and more vibrant since adding nasturtiums around the edges.
They improve soil quality and attract beneficial insects that help control pests. And by placing them near veggies that need a little extra protection, I’ve noticed my overall harvest is stronger and healthier. Plus, they’re just so versatile; they’ll grow well with nearly anything you’ve got in your garden.
Give Nasturtiums a Try – You Won’t Regret It!
After my experience with nasturtiums, I can’t imagine my garden without them. They’re beautiful, practical, and full of unexpected benefits that go far beyond looking pretty. So, if you’re looking for an easy-to-grow, multi-purpose plant that’ll brighten your garden and protect your plants, nasturtiums are an absolute gem.
I’d say give them a try, and you’ll probably end up just as enchanted as I am. And, who knows, you might just find yourself sprinkling nasturtium petals on your next salad!