Controlling Nasturtium Plants: Tips and Tricks

Nasturtium plants are popular among gardeners because of their beautiful flowers and edible leaves. However, they can become invasive if not properly controlled. In this article, we will discuss some tips and tricks on how to control nasturtium plants and keep them from taking over your garden.

Understanding Nasturtium Plants

Before we dive into the tips and tricks, let's first understand what nasturtium plants are. Nasturtiums are annual plants that belong to the Tropaeolum genus. They are native to South America but are now widely cultivated in different parts of the world. Nasturtiums come in different colors, including yellow, orange, and red. Most of them have round leaves and trumpet-shaped flowers. They thrive in well-draining soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.

Tip #1: Regular Pruning

One of the best ways to control nasturtium plants is through regular pruning. Nasturtiums grow quickly and can become leggy if left unattended. To prevent this, prune the plants regularly by cutting back the stems and removing any dead or damaged leaves. This will encourage new growth and help maintain the plant's shape.

When pruning, make sure to use clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant. You can also pinch off the tips of the stems to promote bushier growth.

Tip #2: Mulching

Mulching is another effective way to control nasturtium plants. Mulch helps suppress weed growth and retains moisture in the soil, which is beneficial for the plant's growth. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants, making sure to leave a gap between the stem and the mulch. This will prevent rotting and other diseases.

You can use different types of mulch, such as bark chips, straw, and shredded leaves. Just make sure to replenish the mulch every few months to maintain its effectiveness.

Tip #3: Companion Planting

Companion planting is a method of planting different crops together to benefit each other. In the case of nasturtiums, they make great companion plants for vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and beans. Nasturtiums repel pests like aphids, whiteflies, and cucumber beetles, which can damage these vegetables. They also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which feed on garden pests.

Plant nasturtiums near your vegetables to create a natural pest control system. You can also plant them in containers and place them around your garden to deter pests.

Tip #4: Deadheading

Deadheading is the process of removing spent flowers from the plant. This helps redirect the plant's energy towards producing new blooms instead of seeds. Nasturtiums produce a lot of seeds, which can lead to self-seeding and invasive growth. By deadheading regularly, you can prevent this and keep the plant under control.

To deadhead nasturtiums, simply pinch off the spent flowers with your fingers or use scissors. Make sure to remove the entire flower head, including the stem.

Tip #5: Containment

If you're growing nasturtiums in the ground, consider using some form of containment to keep them from spreading too much. You can use a border or edging material made of wood, stone, or plastic to create a physical barrier. This will prevent the roots from spreading underground and invading other areas of your garden.

Alternatively, you can grow nasturtiums in containers. This will give you more control over their growth and allow you to move them around as needed. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate the plant's size. Make sure to use well-draining soil and water the plant regularly.

Nasturtium plants in a garden

Nasturtium plants are beautiful and beneficial, but they can quickly become invasive if left unchecked. By following these tips and tricks, you can control their growth and enjoy their beauty without worrying about them taking over your garden. Remember to prune regularly, mulch the soil, practice companion planting, deadhead spent flowers, and use containment measures when necessary. With a little effort, you can keep your nasturtium plants under control and have a healthy and thriving garden.

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