Florida’s subtropical climate allows for nasturtium planting from fall through early spring. Knowing the best time to plant nasturtium in florida is the key to getting vibrant blooms without the plants melting in the heat. You want to time your sowing so the flowers appear before the summer humidity hits hard.
Nasturtiums are cool-season annuals in most of Florida. They thrive when temperatures are between 55°F and 75°F. If you plant too late, the leaves might turn yellow and the flowers will be sparse. Let’s break down exactly when to put those seeds in the ground.
Best Time To Plant Nasturtium In Florida
The absolute sweet spot for planting nasturtium seeds in Florida is from October through February. This window gives the plants enough cool weather to grow strong roots and produce lots of flowers. In South Florida, you can even start as early as September and continue through March.
In North Florida, aim for October to November for a fall planting. You can also do a second planting in late January or February for a spring show. Central Florida falls right in the middle, with prime planting from October through February.
Why this timing works so well:
- Cooler temperatures prevent heat stress
- Less humidity reduces powdery mildew risk
- Shorter days encourage more blooms
- Pests like aphids are less active
Why Summer Planting Fails
Many gardeners make the mistake of planting nasturtiums in May or June. The seeds might germinate, but the plants quickly become leggy and stop blooming. The intense Florida sun and high humidity cause the leaves to scorch and turn yellow.
If you try to plant in July, you’ll likely see:
- Poor germination due to hot soil
- Stunted growth
- Heavy aphid infestations
- Almost no flowers
Regional Planting Windows For Florida
Florida is a long state with three distinct climate zones. Your exact planting date depends on where you live. Here is a simple breakdown by region:
North Florida (Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Gainesville)
- Fall planting: October to November
- Spring planting: Late January to February
- Last safe planting date: Mid-March
Central Florida (Orlando, Tampa, Daytona)
- Fall planting: October to December
- Spring planting: January to February
- Last safe planting date: Early March
South Florida (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Naples)
- Fall planting: September to November
- Winter planting: December to February
- Last safe planting date: Late March
How To Plant Nasturtium Seeds In Florida Soil
Nasturtiums are one of the easiest flowers to grow from seed. They don’t like being transplanted, so direct sowing is the best method. Follow these steps for success:
- Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade. In Florida, afternoon shade helps extend the blooming season.
- Prepare the soil by loosening it to about 6 inches deep. Nasturtiums prefer poor to average soil. Too much fertilizer leads to lots of leaves and few flowers.
- Soak the seeds in water for 12 to 24 hours before planting. This softens the hard seed coat and speeds up germination.
- Plant seeds about 1/2 inch deep and 10 to 12 inches apart. You can also plant them closer for a fuller look.
- Water gently after planting. Keep the soil moist but not soggy until seedlings appear.
- Expect germination in 7 to 14 days, depending on soil temperature.
Soil Preparation Tips For Florida Gardens
Florida soil can be sandy or heavy with clay. Nasturtiums adapt well to both, but they need good drainage. If your soil is pure sand, mix in some compost to hold moisture. If you have clay, raise the bed or plant in containers.
Do not add high-nitrogen fertilizer. This will produce giant leaves and almost no flowers. A light application of bone meal or a low-nitrogen fertilizer at planting time is plenty.
Container Planting For Nasturtiums
Containers are a great option for Florida gardeners. They allow you to control the soil quality and move the pots if the weather turns too hot. Use a pot that is at least 8 inches deep with drainage holes.
Fill the container with a well-draining potting mix. Add a handful of perlite or sand to improve drainage. Plant 3 to 4 seeds per 10-inch pot for a full look.
Caring For Nasturtiums During Florida Winters
Once your nasturtiums are growing, they need very little care. Florida winters are mild, so you won’t have to worry about frost in most areas. However, a cold snap can damage young plants.
If a freeze is forecast, cover your plants with a frost cloth or bring containers indoors. Nasturtiums can survive light frosts, but hard freezes will kill them. In North Florida, this is more of a concern in January.
Watering Needs In Cool Weather
Water your nasturtiums when the top inch of soil feels dry. Overwatering can cause root rot, especially in clay soil. During the cooler months, you might only need to water once or twice a week.
In South Florida, where winters are drier, you may need to water more often. Check the soil moisture regularly. The leaves will wilt slightly when the plant needs water.
Dealing With Pests And Diseases
Nasturtiums are generally pest-resistant, but aphids can be a problem in Florida. They often attack new growth and flower buds. A strong spray of water from the hose will knock them off.
If aphids persist, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Avoid harsh chemicals that kill beneficial insects. Ladybugs and lacewings love to eat aphids and will help keep them in check.
Powdery mildew can appear in humid conditions. To prevent it, space your plants well for air circulation. Water at the base of the plant instead of overhead. If you see white powdery spots, treat with a baking soda solution.
Harvesting Nasturtium Flowers And Leaves
One of the best things about nasturtiums is that every part is edible. The flowers have a peppery taste similar to watercress. The leaves are milder and great in salads.
Harvest flowers when they are fully open. Pick them in the morning after the dew has dried. Use them fresh for the best flavor. You can also stuff the flowers with cheese or use them as a garnish.
The seed pods are also edible. Pick them while they are still green and tender. They taste like capers and can be pickled for later use.
Extending The Blooming Season
Nasturtiums will bloom from planting until the heat arrives in late spring. To keep them going as long as possible, deadhead spent flowers regularly. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms instead of setting seed.
You can also trim back leggy growth to promote bushier plants. Cut back about one-third of the stem length. This will stimulate new growth and more flowers.
In South Florida, you might get blooms into April or even May if you provide afternoon shade. In North Florida, the season usually ends by late April.
Common Mistakes When Planting Nasturtiums In Florida
Even experienced gardeners make mistakes with nasturtiums. Here are the most common ones to avoid:
- Planting too late in spring: The heat will kill the plants before they bloom.
- Using too much fertilizer: This results in lush leaves and no flowers.
- Overwatering: Nasturtiums prefer drier conditions once established.
- Planting in deep shade: They need at least 4 to 6 hours of sun to bloom well.
- Transplanting seedlings: Nasturtiums have delicate roots and don’t like being moved.
What To Do If Your Nasturtiums Aren’t Blooming
If your plants are healthy but not flowering, check the growing conditions. The most common cause is too much nitrogen in the soil. Stop fertilizing and let the plant use up the excess nutrients.
Another reason is insufficient sunlight. Move containers to a sunnier spot or trim back overhanging branches. Finally, check for pests like aphids that can stress the plant and reduce blooms.
Using Nasturtiums As Companion Plants In Florida Gardens
Nasturtiums are excellent companion plants for vegetables and herbs. They attract beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. They also repel pests like whiteflies and squash bugs.
Plant nasturtiums near tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash. The strong scent confuses pests and keeps them away from your vegetables. In Florida gardens, this can reduce the need for pesticides.
They also work well as a trap crop for aphids. Aphids prefer nasturtiums over other plants, so they will go there first. You can then remove the infested leaves without harming your main crops.
Best Varieties For Florida Gardens
Some nasturtium varieties perform better in Florida’s climate than others. Here are a few top choices:
- ‘Alaska’ series: Variegated leaves and bright flowers. Good for shade.
- ‘Jewel’ mix: Compact plants with double flowers. Great for containers.
- ‘Empress of India’: Deep red flowers and dark green leaves. Heat tolerant.
- ‘Whirlybird’ series: Upward-facing flowers that are easy to see. Good for ground cover.
- ‘Moonlight’: Pale yellow flowers that trail nicely. Perfect for hanging baskets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Planting Nasturtiums In Florida
Can I Plant Nasturtiums In March In Florida?
In North and Central Florida, March is risky because the weather can turn hot quickly. In South Florida, you can plant in March and still get blooms before summer. For best results, stick to the fall through early spring window.
Do Nasturtiums Come Back Every Year In Florida?
Nasturtiums are annuals, meaning they complete their life cycle in one season. However, they often self-seed in Florida gardens. If you let some flowers go to seed, new plants may appear the following fall.
How Long Do Nasturtiums Bloom In Florida?
With proper care, nasturtiums bloom for about 3 to 4 months. In Florida, this usually means from November through February or March. The blooming period ends when temperatures consistently exceed 85°F.
Can I Grow Nasturtiums In Pots In Florida?
Yes, pots are an excellent choice for Florida gardeners. They allow you to control soil quality and move plants to avoid heat. Use a pot with good drainage and a quality potting mix.
What Is The Best Fertilizer For Nasturtiums In Florida?
Nasturtiums need very little fertilizer. A low-nitrogen fertilizer like 5-10-10 works well. Apply it once at planting time and then stop. Too much fertilizer will reduce flowering.
Final Tips For Success With Florida Nasturtiums
Planting at the right time is the most important factor. Follow the regional guidelines and you will have beautiful blooms all winter. Remember that nasturtiums thrive on neglect, so don’t overwater or overfertilize.
If you miss the fall window, you can still plant in late winter for a spring show. Just be prepared for the heat to arrive sooner. In South Florida, you have the longest planting season of anywhere in the state.
Enjoy the bright flowers and peppery leaves in your salads. Nasturtiums are one of the most rewarding plants for Florida gardeners. With the right timing, you’ll have a stunning display that lasts for months.
One last thing: always check your local weather forecast before planting. A late cold snap can damage young seedlings. But with a little planning, you’ll be rewarded with a garden full of color and flavor.