nasturtium - Tropaeolum majus 'Milkmaid'
nasturtium
Soft, creamy blooms that seem to glow against fresh green foliage make a rapid impact in beds, pots, or veg patches, bringing a light, uplifting feel through the summer months.
This easy-going climber and trailer, Tropaeolum majus Milkmaid, produces pale lemon to almost ivory flowers that sit neatly above rounded leaves, weaving quickly through supports or spilling gently across the ground when left to roam. It works well up obelisks, arches and trellises, or left to create a relaxed, fast-spreading carpet that fills gaps with ease.
Expect plenty of flower power right through summer, with a soft colour palette that pairs beautifully with stronger-toned planting while still holding its own in containers and borders. It also earns its place in the veg garden, helping to discourage common pests when used as a companion plant. The young leaves are edible too, with a peppery kick that lifts salads and adds a bit of homegrown interest from plant to plate.
Please note that some people can experience skin irritation or contact sensitivity from handling nasturtiums, even though the young leaves and flowers are edible for most people.
This easy-going climber and trailer, Tropaeolum majus Milkmaid, produces pale lemon to almost ivory flowers that sit neatly above rounded leaves, weaving quickly through supports or spilling gently across the ground when left to roam. It works well up obelisks, arches and trellises, or left to create a relaxed, fast-spreading carpet that fills gaps with ease.
Expect plenty of flower power right through summer, with a soft colour palette that pairs beautifully with stronger-toned planting while still holding its own in containers and borders. It also earns its place in the veg garden, helping to discourage common pests when used as a companion plant. The young leaves are edible too, with a peppery kick that lifts salads and adds a bit of homegrown interest from plant to plate.
Please note that some people can experience skin irritation or contact sensitivity from handling nasturtiums, even though the young leaves and flowers are edible for most people.
How to care for Tropaeolum majus Milkmaid:
Avoid overwatering or over-feeding (once per fortnight with a diluted liquid feed is ample) to avoid producing leaves at the expense of flowers. Requires minimal maintenance though a check for caterpillars and blackfly will help reduce incidence of defoliation. Dead-heading regularly will also encourage an even better display.
Sowing instructions:
Soak the seeds overnight and then sow an early crop under glass in good seed compost, covering lightly. Maintain the temperature between 13-16°C (55-61°F) and water when necessary. When large enough to handle, pot on or acclimatise slowly and plant outside after all risk of frost has passed. Alternatively sow directly outside in mid to late spring.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
2m
Eventual spread:
1m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or peat-free general purpose compost
Hardiness:
Frost tender
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Humans: Skin allergen
