NASTURTIUM - EMPRESS OF INDIA Seeds for Planting, Premium Gardening Seeds for Vibrant Blooms

Nasturtium 'Empress of India' Seeds

Nasturtium 'Empress of India' (Tropaeolum majus) is a striking heirloom variety known for its deep crimson-red flowers and rich blue-green foliage. This compact, non-trailing variety is perfect for garden beds, borders, containers, and even as a companion plant in vegetable gardens. Easy to grow and low maintenance, these vibrant blooms attract pollinators while also serving as an edible flower, adding a peppery flavor to salads and garnishes.

Key Attributes

• Product Name: Nasturtium 'Empress of India' Seeds
• Scientific Name: Tropaeolum majus
• Plant Type: Annual
• Flower Color: Deep crimson-red
• Foliage: Dark blue-green, rounded leaves
• Mature Height: 12 to 16 inches tall
• Growth Habit: Compact, bushy
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, average to poor soil
• Watering Needs: Low; drought-tolerant once established
• Blooming Season: Summer to fall
• Uses: Ideal for flower beds, borders, containers, hanging baskets, edible gardens, and companion planting

Product Details

• Germination Rate: High with proper preparation
• Seed Freshness: Harvested for optimal viability
• Growth Speed: Fast-growing and easy to maintain
• Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
• Edible Flowers & Leaves: Peppery, mustard-like taste, great for culinary use
• Companion Planting Benefits: Deters pests in vegetable gardens (repels aphids, whiteflies, and squash bugs)

Planting Instructions

Seed Preparation

• Scarification: Lightly nick or soak seeds in warm water for 12-24 hours to speed up germination.

Sowing Instructions

• Best Planting Time: After the last frost in spring or early summer.
• Soil Preparation: Prefers well-draining, low-nutrient soil; avoid fertilizing.
• Planting Depth: Sow seeds ½ inch deep.
• Spacing: 8 to 12 inches apart.
• Germination Time: 7 to 14 days at 65-75°F.

Transplanting Guide

• Direct Sowing Preferred: Nasturtiums dislike transplanting; plant directly outdoors if possible.
• If Starting Indoors: Use biodegradable pots to minimize root disturbance.

Care and Maintenance

• Watering: Water sparingly; overwatering can lead to excessive foliage and fewer flowers.
• Fertilization: Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to encourage blooms over leaves.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
• Pruning: Trim leggy growth to maintain a bushy habit.

Why Grow Nasturtium 'Empress of India'?

• Striking, Rich Red Blooms: Adds vibrant color to any garden.
• Edible Flowers & Leaves: Perfect for culinary use.
• Low Maintenance & Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in tough conditions.
• Natural Pest Repellent: Protects vegetable gardens from common pests.

Companion Planting Suggestions

• Excellent companion for tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, and cabbages.
• Pairs beautifully with marigolds, zinnias, and calendula for a colorful garden.

Seed Saving and Propagation

• Allow seed pods to mature and dry on the plant before collecting for next season.
• Nasturtiums readily self-seed, often returning year after year.

Nasturtium 'Empress of India' is a must-have for any gardener looking for bold color, easy care, and edible beauty in their landscape. Whether used in ornamental displays, vegetable gardens, or culinary dishes, this heirloom variety stands out with its unique charm.