How to Grow Nasturtium Jewel Mix

Nasturtium Jewel Mix

Tropaeolum majus

flower

Nasturtium Jewel Mix is a vibrant blend of compact, bushy nasturtiums producing brilliant flowers in jewel-tone colors including crimson, gold, orange, and scarlet. These easy-to-grow annuals feature attractive round leaves and edible flowers, making them ideal for borders, containers, and cottage gardens. The plants bloom prolifically from summer through fall, providing continuous color with minimal maintenance.

Looking for a specific variety?

Scarlet Jewel Golden Jewel Crimson Jewel Apricot Jewel Mixed Jewel Blend

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun to partial shade, 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily; tolerates some afternoon shade in hot climates

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Water: Moderate watering; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water more frequently during dry spells. Established plants are somewhat drought-tolerant. Reduce watering in cooler months.

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Spacing: 10-12 inches apart inches

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Days to maturity: 35-50 days to first flowers

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Planting depth: 1/2 to 3/4 inch deep; soak seeds overnight for better germination

Soil

Type: Well-draining loamy soil, tolerant of poor soil

pH: 6.0-7.5

Amendments:

Compost for initial planting Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 2-11 as a warm-season annual; performs best in zones 3-9

2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b

Growth Stages

Seedling

2-3 weeks

Cotyledons emerge within 7-10 days; small round leaves appear; plants are tender and delicate

Maintain consistent moisture and warmth (65-70°F). Provide bright light to prevent leggy growth. Handle gently to avoid damaging seed leaves.

Vegetative

2-3 weeks

True leaves develop; plants grow bushy with multiple stems; distinctive round leaves become prominent

Thin seedlings or space transplants properly to prevent crowding. Pinch growing tips at 4-6 inches to encourage branching. Keep soil moist but well-draining.

Budding & Early Flowering

2-3 weeks

Flower buds form at leaf axils; first blooms appear in jewel tones; plant continues to grow

Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage flowering over leaf growth. Support with light stakes if needed. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

Peak Flowering

6-8 weeks

Plant is covered in vibrant jewel-tone flowers (crimson, gold, orange, scarlet); foliage is lush and green

Remove spent flowers regularly for continuous bloom. Water during dry periods. Apply balanced fertilizer every 3-4 weeks. Monitor for pests and diseases.

Late Season & Decline

Until frost

Flowering may slow as temperatures cool; seed pods develop if flowers are not deadheaded; foliage remains ornamental

Allow some flowers to set seed for self-sowing next year, or continue deadheading. Cut back if plants become leggy. Plants typically frost-kill when temperatures drop below 32°F.

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Basil Cabbage Kale Radish Alyssum Marigold Calendula Zinnia Borage

Avoid planting near:

Brassicas (in pest-management contexts, as nasturtiums attract certain pests) Plants requiring dry soil

Common Pests

Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs; nasturtiums act as a trap crop for cabbage pests
Use sticky yellow traps; spray with neem oil; increase air circulation
Spray with water to increase humidity; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; remove heavily infested leaves
Hand-pick larger caterpillars; use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) for severe infestations; encourage parasitic wasps
and
Hand-pick at dawn or dusk; apply copper barriers; use beer traps; remove garden debris

Uses

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Edible flowers & peppery garnishes

Culinary

Nasturtium flowers have a peppery, slightly spicy flavor and are completely edible. Both flowers and young leaves add vibrant color and zesty taste to salads, soups, and garnishes. The immature seed pods can be pickled as a caper substitute. [source]

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Seed pod pickling

Culinary

Green, immature seed pods (called 'capers') can be harvested and pickled with vinegar, salt, and spices. They provide a spicy, briny condiment for charcuterie boards and gourmet cooking. [source]

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Immune support & antimicrobial properties

Medicinal

Nasturtiums contain glucosinolates and other compounds with antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties. Traditionally used in herbal remedies to support respiratory health and combat minor infections. [source]

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Natural pest control & companion planting

Household

Nasturtiums are classic trap crops that attract aphids, whiteflies, and cabbage moths away from vegetable gardens. Their volatile compounds and pest-attracting properties make them valuable in integrated pest management strategies. [source]

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Floral arrangements & decorative displays

Craft

The jewel-tone flowers are prized for fresh flower arrangements, cottage garden aesthetics, and wedding decorations. The vibrant colors and delicate blooms add cottage-garden charm to any garden design. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Flowers can be harvested continuously once blooming begins; pick in morning after dew dries for best texture and flavor. Flowers are fully edible with a peppery taste—use fresh in salads or as garnishes. Seed pods can be harvested green and pickled like capers when immature. Cut flowers last 3-5 days in a vase with fresh water.

Fun Facts

🌱 Nasturtiums were named 'Tropaeolum' by Linnaeus because the round leaves resembled shields and the flowers resembled helmets, invoking the Greek word 'tropaeum' (trophy of war).
🌱 The peppery flavor of nasturtium flowers and leaves comes from glucosinolates, the same compounds found in wasabi and horseradish, making them a natural spicy ingredient for adventurous cooks.
🌱 Nasturtiums are native to South America and were brought to Europe in the 16th century, where they became beloved garden flowers and are still celebrated in European cottage gardens today.

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