Edible Flowers · Growing Guide
Nasturtium Jewel Mix
Variety: Jewel Mix · Tropaeolum majus
Nasturtium Jewel Mix is an easy-to-grow edible flower with colorful blooms in shades of yellow, orange and red. Both the flowers and leaves have a distinctive peppery flavor and are attractive additions to home gardens and containers.
- Difficulty: easyEdible flowerOutdoorGermination: 7–14 daysHarvest: About 50–70 days to first flowers; harvest flowers regularly once blooming begins
Plant overview
Nasturtium Jewel Mix (Tropaeolum majus) is a colorful annual flowering plant valued for both its ornamental beauty and edible flowers and leaves. It grows well in containers, raised beds and garden borders and prefers sunny conditions with well-drained soil. Nasturtiums generally perform better with moderate fertility rather than rich, heavily fertilized soil, which can produce excessive leaves and fewer flowers. In Thailand, Jewel Mix is best grown during the cooler months because prolonged high temperatures can reduce flowering and stress the plants.
Climate & growing season
Prefers cool to mild conditions around 15–24°C. In Thailand, best grown during the cooler months. During warmer weather, provide morning sun, afternoon shade, good airflow and consistent moisture.
Seed starting
Sow seeds directly about 1/2–1 inch deep in moist, well-drained soil. Nasturtium seeds are large and usually germinate in about 7–14 days. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Direct sowing is preferred because Nasturtiums do not like excessive root disturbance.
Transplanting
Direct sowing is preferred, but seedlings can be transplanted carefully while still young. Move the entire root ball without disturbing the roots and plant at the same depth. Water gently after transplanting and provide temporary afternoon shade if conditions are hot.
Sunlight
Nasturtium Jewel Mix grows best with about 4–6 hours of sunlight daily. During Thailand's cooler months, it can tolerate more direct sun. In hot weather, morning sun with afternoon shade is preferable to protect the plant from excessive heat and help maintain flowering.
Watering
Water regularly enough to keep the soil slightly moist, especially while plants are young. Allow the top layer of soil to begin drying before watering again. Avoid constantly wet or waterlogged soil, which can cause root problems. Container plants may need more frequent watering during warm, dry weather.
Soil & growing medium
Use loose, well-drained soil with low to moderate fertility. Nasturtiums can grow well without rich soil, and excessive nutrients—especially nitrogen—can encourage abundant leafy growth with fewer flowers. Good drainage is important during Thailand's rainy or humid periods.
Fertilizing
Nasturtiums need very little fertilizer. In moderately fertile soil, additional feeding may not be necessary. If growth is weak, apply a light dose of balanced fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can produce lush leaves but fewer flowers.
Harvesting
Harvest flowers when they are fully open and fresh, preferably in the morning after the dew has dried. Young, healthy leaves can also be harvested for their peppery flavor. Pick regularly to encourage continued flowering, but avoid removing too many leaves at once so the plant can continue growing strongly.
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