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How to Make Nasturtiums Germinate

If you are struggling with germinating nasturtiums, chances are that you are trying to plant them in conditions that simply don't promote germination. The key to germinating nasturtiums lies in soil temperature and the amount of moisture in the soil. Follow these guidelines for germinating nasturtiums.

Things You'll Need

  • Nasturtium seeds
  • water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Plant nasturtiums seeds right in the garden once the soil has warmed. In warm areas, this means early spring. In cooler climates, it is best to wait until late spring when the soil has dried a bit.

    • 2

      Beware of cold damp soil. Nasturtium seeds will rot in soil that is too cold and too damp. If they have not germinated, check the the seeds. Soft mushy seeds indicate they have begun to rot. Replant seeds when the soil is warmer.

    • 3

      To get a head start with your nasturtiums, start them inside 2 to 4 weeks before they can be planted outside. Nasturtiums do not transplant well. Planting them in peat pots that can be planted right in the garden when the time is right will reduce the shock of transplanting.

    • 4

      Plant nasturtiums in full sun to partial shade.

    • 5

      Fertilize sparingly as nasturtiums produce many leaves and few flowers if the soil is too rich for them.

    • 6

      Pick or cut flowers often to prolong the blooming season. If flowers are picked regularly, nasturtiums will produce until fall.