Weekend project: sow nasturtium seeds
Nasturtiums don't just have beautiful bright flowers - they're edible too! Why not pick up a packet of seeds from your local supermarket and spend a few minutes getting them started? It's a great project for kids too!
Time needed: 10 minutes initially, plus aftercare
Cost: under £5
Materials: 1 packet of nasturtium seeds, some soil and a propagator (if you don't have a propagator an old Chinese takeaway tub and lid will do!
- First, fill your propagator (or takeaway tub) with soil. Water it so that it's completely moist but not waterlogged.
- Using the end of a biro or pencil, dib shallow holes into the tub about 1cm apart.
- Nestle your seeds into the holes and sprinkle a little more soil over the top (a light covering - don't completely bury them).
- Cover with a lid and pop in a dark, warm place (boiler cupboard or airing cupboard is perfect).
- Check every few days and moisten soil a little if necessary. Shoots should start appearing within 10-12 days.
When the shoots appear
- Remove your propagator from the cupboard, take off the lid and leave on a sunny windowsill (water regularly).
- When the plants are big enough to handle, transfer your seedlings into bigger pots (or yoghurt pots with some holes cut into the bottom.
- Keep watering and watch them grow!
After the last frost
- When the weather has warmed up a little, harden off your nasturtiums by popping them outside during the day and bringing them in at night over the course of a few days.
- Transplant them into a large outdoor pot or a hanging basket (you can pick up a hanging basket and bracket for £2 in Poundland!) You can also plant them near kale plants to attract aphids and brighten up your veggie patch.
- Water regularly and when they start to flower pop some plant food in with their water (again, £1 from Poundland).
- Pick the flowers and leaves to use in salads (wash thoroughly first).
