Product Review

Tropaeolum majus is commonly referred to as Nasturtium. This variety, Double Gleam Mahogany, has 2 inch, semi-double deep mahogany red blooms. The grayish green leaves are rounded or kidney-shaped and can be 2 - 5 inches across. The blooms contrasting with the foliage is very eye-catching! Nasturtium will flower in 8 - 12 weeks after starter the seeds. It will grow quickly and have blooms from summer through fall. Nasturtium is often used as a companion-plant for the vegetable garden. The peppery tasting leaves are said to help repel unwanted insects. Nasturtium seed is large and it has a hard seed coat. It requires a 24 hour soak in water or to file the seed gently to break the coat open. Nasturtium does not always transplant well, so many gardeners start the seed directly outdoors in spring. Prepare a seedbed by loosening and weeding the soil. Keep seed moist until germination. With a temperature of 68F, germination normally occurs within 10 days. Space the plants 8 - 12 inches apart. Grow in full sun and in well-drained soil. Nasturtium is usually resistant to deer.