Nasturtiums in Mel's Mix?

So, this year I hope to do more companion planting - I did a tiny bit last year. But my question about nasturtiums is that I always made sure to plant nasturtiums in soil that wasn't too rich and wonderful. My understanding is if the soil has too many nutrients, they will have glorious foliage and not so many flowers. Anyone have any experience?

No problem here. This pic was taken July 2010. There was even more bloom on these in August and September!



pattipan

allrighty, then! Thanks, Pattipan!

I've always heard that about nasturtiums also and I've had some in pots of fresh potting soil that didn't do as well as some in last years potting soil that reseed themselves. I noticed Pattipan's nasturtiums are planted next to what looks like squash. Aren't squash heavy feeders? If so, would that make a good companionship?

walshevak wrote:I've always heard that about nasturtiums also and I've had some in pots of fresh potting soil that didn't do as well as some in last years potting soil that reseed themselves. I noticed Pattipan's nasturtiums are planted next to what looks like squash. Aren't squash heavy feeders? If so, would that make a good companionship?

That was a winter buttercup squash, called Bonbon. They were planted (four plants) in the back two squares and the nasturtiums were planted in the front two. The squash grew up and over my ladder trellis. I had plenty of squash and plenty of flowers. Nasturtiums repel squash bugs...and I only saw a couple the whole season, so you be the judge. Doesn't work against squash vine borers, but at least I narrowed the killing field.



pattipan

Ooh, if nasturtiums repel squash bugs I want to try. But it's already hot here in Georgia. I will be planting some late zucchini soon. Would nasturtiums even be worth trying this time of year here? I understand they prefer cooler climates.

Aren't squash heavy feeders? If so, would that make a good companionship?

That didn't come out the way I meant it. I was actually thinking it would be a good combination because squash are heavy feeders and naturtiums like a leaner mix.

Also, I planted nasturtiums in late June last year and got blooms. zone 7b or 8a depending on who you ask.

Kay

These were taken today at The Samaritan Women in Baltimore. As you can see, the nasturtiums are doing well.

What a beautiful tiered garden!

I planted nasturtiums in my bed with acorn squash last year. Not a single squash bug. This year I am putting "nastys" in a pot in-between my zucchini and butternut squash. Between that and my marigolds and onions I had a wonderful garden with no bugs. Hope for the same this year but know better than to hold my breath!

Nasturtium flowers make a beautiful addition to salads!



Recipe from "The Beekman Boys"... Dr. Brent Ridge.

Spring Spinach and Nasturtium Salad

Soft spinach leaves are complimented by the peppery bite of nasturtium (they’re also pretty nice to look at!). Grapes add a touch of sweetness without being overpowering and the chives, oniony and crisp, add yet another dimension. Whether you serve it with the cheese or without, is entirely up to you.
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
8 cups packed (8 ounces) washed and well-dried spinach, preferably flat leaf or baby
2 cups loosely packed nasturtium flowers and leaves (leaves torn if large)
1 cup seedless red grapes, halved lengthwise
3 flowering chives, greens thinly sliced, flowers torn
4 ounces goat feta, crumbled, optional

Preparation
In a large bowl, whisk together the oil, vinegar, honey, and salt until well combined. Add the spinach, nasturtium flowers and leaves, grapes, and chives and toss to coat. Serve immediately.