How to Grow Nasturtium Jewel Mix Apricot Jewel
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Nasturtium Jewel Mix Apricot Jewel
Tropaeolum majus 'Apricot Jewel'
flowerApricot Jewel is a compact, bushy nasturtium variety producing vibrant apricot-orange flowers with rich coloring and a semi-double form. Part of the Jewel Mix series, it's a dwarf cultivar bred for container gardening and borders, reaching 12-15 inches tall. This edible ornamental offers both decorative appeal and culinary uses, with peppery flowers and leaves popular in salads.
When should you plant Nasturtium Jewel Mix Apricot Jewel in your zone?
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Example Nasturtium Jewel Mix Apricot Jewel timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Nasturtium Jewel Mix Apricot Jewel
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Nasturtium Jewel Mix Apricot Jewel blooms
Around May 22≈ 35 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives as annual in zones 2-11; perennial in zones 9-11
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Get my Nasturtium Jewel Mix Apricot Jewel timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
2-3 weeksTrue leaves emerge with distinctive round cotyledons; plants develop initial set of peltate (shield-shaped) leaves
Keep soil moist, provide bright light. Thin seedlings to proper spacing. Avoid overwatering to prevent damping off.
Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeksBushy plants develop more foliage with characteristic round leaves; compact growth habit becomes evident
Maintain consistent moisture and light. Do not over-fertilize or growth becomes leggy. Pinch back growing tips if needed to encourage bushiness.
Budding
1-2 weeksFlower buds form in leaf axils; distinctive spurred buds become visible among foliage
Continue regular watering. Support plants if they become top-heavy. Begin light fertilizing with balanced or low-nitrogen formula if needed.
Flowering
6-12 weeks (until frost or decline)Apricot-orange semi-double flowers open continuously; blooms cluster among foliage creating jewel-like display
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Water at base, not on flowers. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates (above 85°F) to preserve color.
Seed Production & Decline
4-8 weeksIf not deadheaded, distinctive round seed pods develop; plants eventually decline as temperatures drop or heat intensifies
Allow some flowers to go to seed for self-seeding next year, or save seeds. As plant declines, compost and replant with fall crops in mild climates.
Common Pests
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs
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Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap; neem oil; improve air circulation
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Increase humidity; spray water on leaves; use neem oil or miticides if severe
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Hand-pick; remove debris; use copper tape around containers; beer traps; diatomaceous earth
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; sulfur dust or fungicidal spray if needed
Uses
Edible Flowers & Leaves
CulinaryBright apricot flowers and round leaves have a peppery, slightly spicy flavor perfect for salads, garnishes, and culinary presentation. Flowers add visual appeal and subtle heat to dishes. [source]
Nasturtium Capers
CulinaryImmature green seed pods can be pickled and used as a caper substitute with peppery flavor, offering a zero-waste use of the entire plant. [source]
Traditional Remedy
MedicinalNasturtium contains glucosinolates and sulfur compounds historically used in herbal medicine for immune support and respiratory health, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Pollinator & Pest Trap
WildlifeAttracts pollinators including bees and hummingbirds while acting as a trap crop for aphids, which prefer nasturtium over nearby vegetables, protecting other plants. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
CraftSemi-double apricot blooms work beautifully in small bouquets and floral arrangements, with good vase life lasting 5-7 days when properly conditioned. [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 are edible and best harvested in morning after dew dries. Pinch blooms just below the flower head. Use immediately or refrigerate in water for up to 2 days. Harvest leaves throughout growing season for peppery salad garnish. Collect immature green seed pods (nasturtium capers) 2-3 weeks after flowering for pickling.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Nasturtium flowers and leaves contain glucosinolates, the same compounds found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, giving them their distinctive peppery bite.
- 🌱 The plant's scientific name 'Tropaeolum' comes from the Greek word for 'trophy' because its round leaves and curved spurs resemble a trophy or helmet with plume.
- 🌱 Nasturtiums are so effective at attracting aphids that farmers and gardeners historically planted them as 'sacrificial' trap crops to protect vegetable gardens from pest damage.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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