At the end of summer, we go around to where we have been growing nasturtiums (Tropaeolum spp.) and collect fallen seeds. The seeds go from green to brown as they age and we place the grown ones in jars for storage and replanting in the following spring.
Seeds can be directly planted in spring. We plant them on the edges of borders, in rockeries, and where they can spill over retaining walls. They do fine in marginal soils and prefer good drainage. We water them regularly, but only with the regular rotation of watering garden beds.
The rounded leaves are edible and peppery to the taste. The bright flowers are also edible. There are varietal seeds that can be purchased, but we have been collecting seed from the original plantings decades ago and each year we have bright flowers and attractive plants in the garden.
Nasturtiums are a rewarding and easy part of a home garden.
