Nasturtium seeds - buy, sow & use

Where do you get nasturtium seeds from?

You can buy nasturtium seeds in supermarkets or nurseries, but you can also order them by mail order or on the Internet. However, if you are looking for a special variety or an unusual flower color, then you should look around in specialist shops. There you will also find nasturtiums with black, white or pink flowers, for example.

Can you grow nasturtiums from your own seeds?

You can grow nasturtiums from your own seeds relatively easily. When collecting the seeds, be sure to dry them thoroughly so that they don't start to go moldy. If stored in a dark and dry place, you can keep the seeds until the next spring.

Sow nasturtiums

You can sow nasturtiums outdoors, right in the spot where you want them to stay. However, you should wait until about mid-May and only sow after the ice saints, because the nasturtiums are not frost hardy. She likes it sunny and warm, but also tolerates shade.

Put the seeds individually or in pairs in small holes in the ground and cover them with about one to two centimeters of soil. Keep the seeds well moist during the germination period. The first seedlings should be visible after about 10 to 20 days.

Are nasturtium seeds edible?

Nasturtium seeds are edible. Like the other parts of the plant, they taste spicy and slightly hot. If they are still immature and soft, you can pickle the seeds as a caper substitute, as can the unopened buds.

Briefly boil the seeds in a broth of vinegar, salt and water. Pour this mixture into a clean twist-off glass to just below the brim while still hot and immediately seal it tightly. If you place the glass in a dark and cool place, your “false capers” can be kept for several months or even years.

You can also let the seeds ripen and then dry them. If stored in a cool, dry and dark place, they will keep for a few months. They can be perfectly ground in a spice mill or mortar, then you can use them to season your dishes delicious.