Nasturtium Baby Red - 5 Seeds

Nasturtium 'Baby Red' (Tropaeolum majus) is a compact, bushy variety of nasturtium that produces vibrant red flowers with a striking contrast against its lush, rounded green leaves. This dwarf variety grows to around 25–30 cm tall, making it ideal for containers, borders, hanging baskets, and small garden spaces. The edible flowers and leaves have a peppery, slightly spicy flavour, making them a beautiful and tasty addition to salads and garnishes.

Nasturtiums are fast-growing, low-maintenance plants that thrive in a variety of conditions. They also help repel pests like aphids, making them excellent companion plants for vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers.

Soil Requirements

Prefers well-drained, light, and moderately fertile soil.

Avoid overly rich soil, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth with fewer flowers.

Ideal soil pH: 6.0–7.5.

Sunlight & Location

Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade (though flowering may be reduced).

Best grown in garden beds, containers, hanging baskets, or edging borders.

Can tolerate poor soils and dry conditions, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Planting & Germination

Starting from Seeds (Indoors & Outdoors)

Indoor Sowing:

Start 2–4 weeks before the last frost in small pots or trays.

Sow seeds 1–2 cm deep in moist soil.

Keep at 18–22°C for optimal germination.

Transplant outdoors after the risk of frost has passed.

Direct Sowing (Recommended):

Sow seeds directly into the ground after the last frost when soil has warmed.

Plant seeds 1–2 cm deep and 20–30 cm apart.

Germination occurs within 7–14 days.

Watering

Water moderately to keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging.

Once established, nasturtiums are drought-tolerant and require only occasional watering.

Overwatering can lead to excessive leaf growth with fewer flowers.

Fertilization

Does not require heavy feeding.

Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they promote leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

A light application of compost at planting time is sufficient.

Maintenance & Pruning

Deadheading (removing spent flowers) will encourage continuous blooming.

If plants become too leggy, trim back by a few centimetres to promote bushier growth.

Can be left to self-seed for continuous growth in the following seasons.

Pest & Disease Control

Pests: Nasturtiums can attract aphids, which can be used as a sacrificial plant to protect vegetables.

Companion Planting: Helps repel whiteflies, cucumber beetles, and squash bugs.

Disease Resistance: Generally disease-free, but watch for powdery mildew in humid conditions.

Harvesting (Edible Flowers & Leaves)

Flowers and leaves are edible and can be harvested at any time.

Pick young leaves for a milder flavour.

Flowers make a beautiful garnish and add a spicy kick to salads.

Unripe seed pods can be pickled as "poor man's capers."

Key Benefits of Growing 'Baby Red' Nasturtiums

✔ Compact growth, perfect for small spaces and containers.
✔ Bright red blooms that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
✔ Edible flowers & leaves, adding colour and spice to salads.
✔ Drought-tolerant & low maintenance, ideal for beginner gardeners.
✔ Great companion plant for vegetables, deterring pests naturally.

Would you like companion planting suggestions or more tips on maximizing blooms?