Description
Tropaeolum majus, the garden nasturtium, nasturtium, Indian cress or monks cress, is a species of flowering plant in the family Tropaeolaceae, originating in the Andes from Bolivia north to Colombia. An easily-grown annual with disc-shaped leaves and brilliant orange or red flowers, it is of cultivated, probably hybrid origin. It is not closely related to the genus Nasturtium (which includes watercress).
Germination Guide
🌍 Andes of South America, native to Peru, Bolivia, and Colombia
Moderate
Tropaeolum majus, commonly called nasturtium, is a tender annual native to the Andes Mountains of South America, prized for its vibrant edible flowers and peppery leaves. Seeds feature a thick seed coat requiring scarification and soaking for reliable germination, which typically occurs within 7-14 days under warm conditions in complete darkness. This easy-to-grow ornamental is valued for both its ornamental beauty and pest-repelling properties in vegetable gardens.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
7 – 14 days
Temperature
Min 18°C
Ideal 20°C
Max 21°C
Light
🌑 Darkness required
Substrate moisture
💧💧 High
Seed Pre-treatment
-
💧
Soaking — 12 hours
Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 8-12 hours or overnight to soften thick seed coat
-
🔨
Mechanical scarification
Mechanical scarification of seed coat improves germination rate
-
📋
Additional notes
Escarificação e embebição em água morna na noite anterior
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Light, well-draining seed compost or peat-based mix free of pathogens
Recommended container
Transparent plastic container with lid or peat pots to minimize transplant shock
Growing Tips
Scarify seeds by nicking with a knife or lightly sanding, then soak overnight in warm water. Seeds require darkness to germinate—cover trays completely or use opaque containers. Maintain high humidity and warmth (18-21°C) until germination appears. Do not use rich soil; poor, well-draining substrate promotes better flowering. Once established, provide full sun and allow soil to dry between waterings. Acclimatize seedlings gradually over 2-3 weeks before transplanting outdoors. Nasturtium seedlings are vigorous and fast-growing; handle with care due to delicate stems.
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