Georgia’s mild spring temperatures make March and April the prime months for planting nasturtium. Knowing the best time to plant nasturtium in Georgia is key to getting those bright, edible flowers all season long. You want to avoid the last frost and the scorching summer heat.
Nasturtiums are easy to grow. They don’t need much fuss. But timing matters here in Georgia because our weather can be tricky. Plant too early, and a late frost kills them. Plant too late, and the heat stresses them out.
This guide gives you the exact planting windows. You will learn about soil, sun, and care. Let’s get your nasturtiums growing strong.
Best Time To Plant Nasturtium In Georgia
The absolute best time to plant nasturtium in Georgia is from mid-March through the end of April. This window works for most of the state. You want the soil temperature to be at least 55°F (13°C).
Check your local frost dates. In north Georgia, wait until early April. In south Georgia, you can start in early March. The key is to plant after the danger of frost has passed.
Nasturtiums hate cold. A light frost will turn them to mush. So be patient. If you plant them too early, you risk losing them.
Why Spring Is The Sweet Spot
Spring in Georgia gives you cool nights and warm days. This is perfect for nasturtiums. They grow best when temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F.
If you plant in summer, the heat makes them leggy. They produce fewer flowers. The leaves might turn yellow. Spring planting avoids all that.
You also get a longer blooming period. Nasturtiums planted in March or April will flower from late spring until the first fall frost. That’s months of color.
Fall Planting Option
You can also plant nasturtiums in late summer for a fall bloom. This works well in Georgia. The heat of August is fading, and the soil is warm.
Plant them in late August or early September. They will bloom through October and into November. This is a second chance if you missed spring planting.
Fall planting is great for cooler areas of north Georgia. The flowers last longer before frost hits. Just make sure they have time to mature before cold weather.
Understanding Georgia’s Climate Zones
Georgia has three main climate zones. Your planting time changes based on where you live. Let’s break it down.
North Georgia (Mountains And Foothills)
North Georgia has colder winters and later springs. The last frost can be as late as mid-April. Plant nasturtiums here from early April to early May.
- Soil warms up slower in the mountains.
- Use a soil thermometer to check temperature.
- Protect young plants with row covers if a late frost threatens.
You can also start seeds indoors in late March. Transplant them outside in mid-April. This gives you a head start.
Central Georgia (Piedmont Region)
Central Georgia has a milder climate. The last frost is usually in late March. Plant from mid-March to mid-April.
- This area includes Atlanta, Macon, and Augusta.
- Soil warms up by early April.
- Direct sow seeds after the soil is workable.
You might get away with planting in early March if the weather is warm. But always watch the forecast. A cold snap can happen.
South Georgia (Coastal Plain)
South Georgia has warm winters and early springs. The last frost can be in late February. Plant from early March to early April.
- Soil warms up quickly here.
- You can plant earlier than other regions.
- Watch for summer heat arriving by May.
In coastal areas, nasturtiums can even be planted in February if the ground is not frozen. Just be ready to cover them if a freak frost occurs.
How To Plant Nasturtiums Step By Step
Planting nasturtiums is simple. Follow these steps for success.
Step 1: Choose The Right Location
Nasturtiums need full sun to partial shade. In Georgia, afternoon shade helps in hot areas. Pick a spot that gets 4-6 hours of direct sun.
They grow well in poor soil. Too much fertilizer makes them produce leaves instead of flowers. So don’t amend the soil too much.
You can plant them in garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets. They trail nicely over edges.
Step 2: Prepare The Soil
Loosen the soil to about 6 inches deep. Remove any rocks or weeds. Nasturtiums like well-draining soil.
If your soil is heavy clay, mix in some sand or compost. But go easy on the compost. They prefer lean soil.
Test the soil pH. Nasturtiums like a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Most Georgia soil is fine.
Step 3: Sow The Seeds
Nasturtium seeds are large and easy to handle. Soak them in water for 12-24 hours before planting. This softens the seed coat and speeds up germination.
- Make a hole about 1 inch deep.
- Drop in 2 seeds per hole.
- Cover with soil and water gently.
- Space seeds 10-12 inches apart for bush types.
- Space 18-24 inches for trailing varieties.
Seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Step 4: Water And Care
Water nasturtiums only when the soil is dry. Overwatering causes root rot. They are drought-tolerant once established.
Do not fertilize. Fertilizer makes them grow big leaves but few flowers. They thrive on neglect.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. But it’s not necessary. Nasturtiums self-seed easily.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Even experienced gardeners make mistakes. Here are the most common ones.
Planting Too Early
This is the biggest error. Planting in February or early March in north Georgia is risky. A late frost will kill your seedlings.
Wait until the soil is warm. Check the 10-day forecast. If temps drop below 40°F, hold off.
Planting Too Late
Planting in May or June in south Georgia is also bad. The heat stresses the plants. They may not bloom well.
If you plant late, choose a spot with afternoon shade. Water more frequently. But expect fewer flowers.
Over-Fertilizing
Nasturtiums are like the opposite of most plants. They hate rich soil. Too much nitrogen gives you lush leaves and no flowers.
Skip the fertilizer. If your soil is very poor, add a little compost. That’s it.
Overcrowding
Don’t plant seeds too close together. Nasturtiums need space to spread. Crowded plants get powdery mildew.
Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing. You can transplant extras if needed.
Best Varieties For Georgia
Some nasturtium varieties do better in Georgia’s climate. Here are top picks.
Dwarf Varieties
Dwarf nasturtiums are compact. They grow 8-12 inches tall. Great for containers and small gardens.
- ‘Alaska’ series: Variegated leaves, colorful flowers.
- ‘Empress of India’: Deep red flowers, blue-green leaves.
- ‘Tom Thumb’: Mix of colors, very early bloomer.
Trailing Varieties
Trailing nasturtiums spill over edges. They are perfect for hanging baskets and window boxes.
- ‘Jewel Mix’: Bright colors, semi-double flowers.
- ‘Climbing Mixed’: Can reach 6 feet tall with support.
- ‘Moonlight’: Pale yellow flowers, very fragrant.
Climbing Varieties
Climbing nasturtiums need a trellis or fence. They add vertical interest to the garden.
- ‘Flore Pleno’: Double flowers, orange and yellow.
- ‘Vesuvius’: Salmon-orange flowers, vigorous grower.
- ‘Canary Creeper’: Yellow, bird-shaped flowers, unique.
Pests And Diseases In Georgia
Nasturtiums are tough. But they can have problems. Here’s what to watch for.
Aphids
Aphids love nasturtiums. They cluster on new growth and buds. You can spray them off with water.
Or use insecticidal soap. Ladybugs also eat aphids. Nasturtiums can act as a trap crop for aphids, protecting other plants.
Powdery Mildew
This fungus looks like white powder on leaves. It happens in humid weather. Georgia’s humidity can cause it.
Prevent it by spacing plants well. Water at the base, not overhead. Remove infected leaves.
Caterpillars
Some caterpillars eat nasturtium leaves. They are usually not a big problem. Hand-pick them off.
If you see large holes in leaves, check for caterpillars. Use Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) if needed.
Using Nasturtiums In Your Garden
Nasturtiums are not just pretty. They are useful too. Here are ways to use them.
Edible Flowers And Leaves
Both flowers and leaves are edible. They have a peppery taste, like watercress. Add them to salads for color and flavor.
The flowers are also great as garnishes. Stuff them with cheese for a fancy appetizer. Use the seeds as a caper substitute.
Companion Planting
Nasturtiums repel some pests. Plant them near vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash. They deter whiteflies and squash bugs.
They also attract beneficial insects. Bees love the flowers. Ladybugs come for the aphids.
Ground Cover
Trailing nasturtiums make good ground cover. They spread quickly and suppress weeds. Use them on slopes or bare spots.
They are annuals, so they die in winter. But they self-seed, so you might get volunteers next year.
Harvesting And Saving Seeds
You can save seeds from your nasturtiums. It’s easy and saves money.
Harvesting Seeds
Let some flowers go to seed. The seeds form in green pods. When the pods turn brown and dry, pick them.
Spread the pods on a paper towel. Let them dry for a week. Then remove the seeds from the pods.
Store seeds in a paper envelope. Keep them in a cool, dry place. They stay viable for 3-5 years.
Collecting Seeds From Self-Seeded Plants
Nasturtiums often self-seed. You might find seedlings popping up next spring. Just thin them out or transplant them.
This is a lazy gardener’s dream. Once you plant them, they can come back year after year. Just watch for volunteers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Plant Nasturtium Seeds Directly In The Ground In Georgia?
Yes, direct sowing is the best method. Wait until after the last frost. Soil temperature should be at least 55°F. Soak seeds overnight for faster germination.
What Is The Latest Time To Plant Nasturtium In Georgia For Fall Blooms?
Plant by late August or early September. This gives them time to grow before the first frost. In north Georgia, aim for mid-August. In south Georgia, early September works.
Do Nasturtiums Need Full Sun In Georgia’s Hot Climate?
They need 4-6 hours of sun. In south Georgia, afternoon shade is beneficial. Too much direct sun in summer can cause leaf scorch. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.
How Long Do Nasturtiums Take To Bloom From Seed In Georgia?
From seed to flower takes about 6-8 weeks. Spring-planted seeds bloom by May or June. Fall-planted seeds bloom by October. Cooler weather can slow growth.
Can I Start Nasturtium Seeds Indoors In Georgia?
Yes, you can start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Use biodegradable pots to avoid root disturbance. Transplant after the soil warms up. This works well in north Georgia.
Final Tips For Success
Nasturtiums are forgiving plants. Even if you make a mistake, they often bounce back. Here are last tips.
Water sparingly. They prefer dry conditions. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure.
Don’t deadhead if you want self-seeding. Let some flowers go to seed. You will get free plants next year.
Watch for pests early. Aphids can be controlled easily if caught early. Check the undersides of leaves.
Enjoy the flowers. They are beautiful and edible. Use them in salads, as garnishes, or just enjoy them in the garden.
Remember, the best time to plant nasturtium in Georgia is spring. But you have a second chance in fall. Choose the right time for your zone, and you will have success.
Nasturtiums are a joy to grow. They add color, attract pollinators, and are low maintenance. Plant them once, and you will want them every year.
So get your seeds ready. Check your soil temperature. Pick the right spot. And enjoy the process. Your Georgia garden will thank you.