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Nasturtium 'Empress of India'
Seed Packet

Nasturtium 'Empress of India'

Tropaeolum majus
Small, dark sea green leaves and smoldering scarlet flowers make a striking contrast on this Victorian-era heirloom named after Queen Victoria, who was proclaimed Empress of India in 1877. It's still going strong today, esteemed for the compact habit, beautiful leaves, and vivid flowers ornamenting garden edges and containers.
SKU #S227
$3.25
Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
33
Lifecycle
Annual
Annual Hardiness
Tender Annual
Mature Size
1-1.5' h x 1-1.5' w
Sun
Full sun to partial shade
Soil
Regular, well-drained
Season
Summer to fall
Color
Deep scarlet red
Features
Great for containers
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
Attracts Hummingbirds
Attracts Beneficial Insects
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
1/2"
Sprout Time:
7-14 days
Seed To Bloom:
10-12 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Sow in pots 2-4 weeks before last frost. Keep at 65°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Recommended. Direct sow after last frost.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
About 1-2 weeks after all danger of frost, taking care not to disturb the roots.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Nasturtiums are a joy to grow, requiring minimal care and soil inputs. They prefer nitrogen-poor soil, which encourages flower production over lush foliage growth. Adding a layer of mulch and providing some afternoon shade can help keep the soil cool and your nasturtiums happy in hot summer areas. Nasturtium seeds are quite large and easy to plant, which makes them an excellent choice for young budding gardeners. Consider adding them to your vegetable garden for their peppery flavors and pollinator-attracting qualities. Smaller varieties can be grown in pots while trailing types can be trained to climb fences and trellises with some assistance by tying them in. Pick a handful of blooms and place in old sea-green glass canning jars for the perfect bouquet.
Final Spacing:
1'
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
About 1" per week—drought tolerant once established, however regular watering may encourage more blossoms.
Soil pH:
Slightly acidic to neutral
Fertilizer:
Do not fertilize, as this will limit blooms and stimulate excess foliage growth. Add 1" of compost to poor soils.
Diseases & Pests:
Aphids may pose a problem—treat with an insecticidal soap if hosing down daily does not resolve the issue. Ladybugs may appear to help control aphids.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when flowers are fully open.