10 Easiest Plants to Grow from Seeds (Guide + Tips)

#9 – Nasturtiums: Edible Flowers

You should have seen my students’ faces when I told them they could eat flowers! Nasturtiums have been my secret weapon for getting kids interested in gardening. There’s something magical about watching a child’s eyes light up when they taste their first peppery nasturtium flower. These colorful plants have taught me that sometimes the best garden plants are the ones that don’t need much fussing.

The Beauty of Poor Soil

Here’s the most surprising thing about nasturtiums:

• Actually prefer lean soil
• Too much fertilizer reduces flowers
• Thrive in sandy, well-draining soil
• No soil amendments needed
• Better flavor in poor soil

Container Growing Excellence

My foolproof container strategy:

1. Container Basics:

• At least 12 inches deep
• Good drainage essential
• Use regular potting mix
• No fertilizer needed

1. Growing Habits:

• Trailing varieties for hanging baskets
• Dwarf types for window boxes
• Bush types for borders
• Mix varieties for interest

Edible Parts Guide

Let me share my favorite ways to eat nasturtiums:

1. Flowers:

• Peppery flavor profile
• Beautiful garnishes
• Stuff with soft cheese
• Add to salads

1. Leaves:

• Spicy like watercress
• Perfect sandwich toppers
• Add to pesto
• Use as wrap alternatives

1. Seeds:

• Pickle like capers
• Natural preserving
• Spicy additions to recipes

Natural Pest Control Benefits

These plants are serious garden defenders:

• Repel aphids naturally
• Deter whiteflies
• Protect cucumbers and squash
• Trap crop for cabbage moths
• Natural garden protection

Color Varieties That Wow

After years of growing, here are my guaranteed showstoppers:

Traditional Colors:

• ‘Jewel Mix’ – Classic blend
• ‘Alaska’ – Variegated leaves
• ‘Empress of India’ – Deep red

Unique Varieties:

• ‘Peach Melba’ – Soft yellow and orange
• ‘Black Velvet’ – Dark mahogany
• ‘Moonlight’ – Pale yellow

Pro Growing Tips

My time-tested secrets for success:

1. Starting Seeds:

• Nick seeds slightly
• Soak overnight
• Direct sow after frost
• Plant 1 inch deep

1. Maintenance:

• Water moderately
• Remove spent flowers
• Give climbing support
• Save seeds easily

Ready to meet the most carefree flower in the garden? Click that next button to discover the drought-tolerant wonder that is cosmos! These daisy-like beauties practically grow themselves, and I can’t wait to share how they transformed my garden’s bare spots into a butterfly paradise with zero effort!

Want to learn about the ultimate low-maintenance flower? The next section about cosmos will show you how to create a beautiful garden with minimal work!