Nasturtiums, sometimes referred to by the more playful name “nastersham,” are part of the fun and burst of color to the garden and come with a whole host of uses and benefits. When purchasing plants, one of the easier and lovelier specimens to grow is nasturtium, a member of the Brassicaceae family. The beauty and utility of nasturtiums offer a range of benefits from culinary to medicinal.
Growing Nasturtiums
Aesthetic Appeal
One of the main reasons to grow nasturtiums is their very fetching appearance. They will probably come in a variety of colors such as bold reds, oranges, and yellows that make any garden light up with color. They bloom profusely from midsummer into fall, sure to bring color around the house.
Edible Delights
Nasturtiums are not only good to see around your house; they are also edible. The leaves and flowers are edible and have a peppery flavor, much like watercress. Use them in salads or as a garnish for soups, stuff the flowers with cheese for a fancy hors d’oeuvre. There is also much nutritional value-nasturtiums are full of vitamin C, which will help to strengthen the immune system and ward off the common cold.
Medicinal Uses
While nasturtiums are utilized in culinary applications, they have been utilized historically and traditionally in medicine. The leaves can be applied to wounds because they are antiseptic, and the seeds can be pulverized to a paste for the same function, for something fungal. Nasturtium, if consumed, will also aid in treating against respiratory issues, like bronchitis, because of its potent, spicy taste.
How to Grow Nasturtiums
Site Selection
These plants are hardy and can grow anywhere, but they do best in full sun and well-drained soil. Additionally, nasturtium does not like to have its roots waterlogged. They can be directly planted in a garden or raised in pots to accommodate a variety of garden set-ups.
Planting Tips
Plant the nasturtium seeds directly into the soil after the last frost. Allow them some 10–12 inches of spacing so they will have time to spread. If planting in pots, use a well-draining container. Being a fast-growing kind of flower, a few months will not leave you waiting for the first happy blooms of nasturtium.
Nasturtiums are very low maintenance. They require little water and may survive on minimal amounts of fertilization. It is known that they may even have an abundance of foliage when applying too much fertilizer and that the plant will usually sacrifice flowers. Garden pests and disease should be kept under constant check, but the Nasturtium which typically does not pose any serious issues that arise with most garden plants.
Fun and Funky Uses for Nasturtiums in Your Home
Kitchen Fun
Garnish salads with whole leaves and flowers of nasturtium adding some colour and a spicy bite. They can also be used as a garnish. Alternatively, the ripe seeds can be pickled as a robust condiment similar to capers.
Nasturtiums can also be involved in arts and crafts at home. These tinct flowers can be included in dry flower arrangements, in potpourri, or as craft accessories. You can store the flowers and use them when dry as purpose, or combine in a variety of arts and crafts.
Skincare Benefits
Nasturtium is not beneficial only internally but also for the external condition of the skin. The extract of the flower provides some arabinogalactans, which are complex sugars ideal for cellular oxygenation with a view to a bright and glowing skin. Acquire products with nasturtium extract in your skincare to intensify your beauty routine.
Contingencies and Warnings
While nasturtiums are mostly safe, there are some precautions to note. One may experience a stomach upset if they consume large quantity. Ensure that flowers or leaves to be used in food or as skin products have risen from an environment free from pesticides and other chemicals.
Conclusion
Nasturtiums, sometimes lovingly referred to as “nastersham,” are an asset to any garden. They add color and offer culinary and medicinal properties that are valuable, and they may be used in home decoration or skincare. Their versatile and rewarding nature endears them to the home gardener, whether experienced or beginner.
Nasturtiums are beautiful and have their uses at home and in the garden.
