Tropaeolum majus 'Climbing Mixed'
nasturtium
- Position: full sun or partial shade
- Soil: poor, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering: June to September
- Hardiness: tender (will need frost protection)
A succession of long-spurred, funnel-shaped, yellow, orange and red flowers appear from July to September amid the light green leaves of this easy to grow annual climber. These colourful nasturtiums are perfect for covering bare walls in record time, or for scrambling over sunny banks and slopes.
Avoid overwatering or over-feeding (once per fornight 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.
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 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.
- Humans: Skin allergen