• Brings bold color and texture to your garden. Apporte des couleurs et des textures audacieuses à votre jardin.
  • A plant with vibrant red flowers and lush green leaves. Une plante aux fleurs rouge vif et aux feuilles vertes luxuriantes.
  • An exquisite Empress of India Nasturtium Seeds plant. Une plante exquise de graines de capucine de l’impératrice de l’Inde.
  • Stunning plant variety, Empress of India Nasturtium. Superbe variété de plantes, capucine de l’impératrice des Indes.
  • Behold the beauty of Empress of India Nasturtium. Contemplez la beauté de la capucine de l’impératrice des Indes
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JNB Seed

Empress of India Nasturtium Seeds

Empress of India Nasturtium Seeds

$4.50 CAD
$4.50 CAD
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These annual plants originate from South America and are well-suited for various garden applications such as garden borders, herb gardens, slope coverage, hanging baskets, and containers. They thrive in moist, well-drained soil under full sun conditions. Tropaeolum majus, commonly known as nasturtium, exhibits its best flowering performance in nutrient-poor soil. Seeds can be sown indoors in early spring or directly in the garden in mid-spring. The plant typically reaches a height of 15-30 centimeters, boasting vibrant crimson flowers set against blue-green foliage, creating a striking visual display. Nasturtiums are renowned for their edible leaves, with the common name derived from the Latin term for "nose-twister," reflecting the pungent taste experienced when consumed. The plant has a rich culinary history, with every part, including the seeds, being utilized in various dishes. Although Spanish botanist Nicolas Monardes provided the first botanical description, it was Carl Linnaeus who officially named the genus "Tropaeolum." The name draws inspiration from ancient Roman tropaeum, symbolizing victory in battle, as the plant's flowers resembled helmets, and its leaves mirrored shields.


    How To Grow

    Sowing: Prepare Empress of India Nasturtium seeds for planting by gently rubbing one side of each seed with sandpaper to soften their hard coating. Afterward, soak the seeds in warm water overnight to further aid in germination. For optimal results, mix the seeds with moist sand and refrigerate them for 30 days before sowing. Plant the seeds just below the soil surface in early spring, ensuring they receive adequate moisture until germination occurs, typically within 7-14 days.

    Growing: Provide regular watering for Empress of India Nasturtium seedlings until they establish themselves. While mature plants appreciate occasional watering during dry spells, they can tolerate periods of drought and are adaptable to poor or sandy soil conditions. Avoid excessive fertilization, as this may result in abundant foliage growth at the expense of flowering. To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead spent flowers as needed. This plant has the potential to self-seed and is known to attract beneficial pollinators such as bees. It thrives as a container plant, offering versatility in various gardening settings.

    Harvesting

    Harvesting: While the blossoms of these plants may not endure as cut flowers for an extended period, the entirety of the plant is edible. Tender young leaves are perfect for adding freshness to salads, while the vibrant blossoms serve as delightful garnishes, enhancing the visual appeal of culinary creations.

    Seed Saving

    Seed Saving: Once the vibrant flowers of the Empress of India Nasturtium fade, round seeds will begin to develop in pairs within the dried flower head. It's essential to gather these seeds promptly as they become loose from the stem. After collection, spread the seeds out in a single layer to ensure thorough drying. Once completely dry, store the Empress of India Nasturtium seeds in a cool, dry location to maintain their viability for future planting endeavors.

    Extra Facts

    Empress of India Nasturtium Seeds
    Latin Name: Tropaeolum majus
    Species Origin: South America
    Type: Annual
    Life Cycle: Annual
    USDA Zones: 2-11
    Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
    Height: 20-30 cm
    Color: Rich crimson
    Blooming Season: Spring to fall
    Uses: Edible leaves, garnish, ornamental

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