| Nasturtium Tropaeolum majus |
| Many people see this plant as a flower, and to others, Nasturtium is an invasive weed. If you were to travel back in time, apothecaries would have used the flowers and leaves as salves due to the plant’s herb-like properties. It all comes down to where you are and what you use this plant for. Nasturtiums grow well in well-drained soils and are sun worshippers. There are many colours to choose from, and bush or climbing varieties are also available to the enthusiast. Sometimes referred to as the ideal plants for children, I would say ‘for all ages’. I have used the leaves and flowers in salads in the past. Depending on the palette, the leaves can be a little spicy or peppery. They can make a nice change from rocket leaves. The leaves are filled with vitamin C and other minerals, while the flowers are rich in B1, B2, and B3. Mostly, however, l tend to have them present in the garden for their wonderfully vibrant colour splashes, and l use them also as plant diversions or trap plantings. The flowers are gorgeous and have a beautiful scent, and butterflies and pollinators adore them. Nasturtium is also great for pest attraction and control. Bees love the nectar from the flowers, and they can also attract hoverflies, which love feasting on aphids! Nasturtiums are great companion plants and can benefit broccoli, potatoes, tomatoes, courgettes, pumpkins and squashes directly, They are easy to grow, long-lasting, and can contain many seeds within their seed heads. Plus, let us not forget the absolute colourful beauty they bring to the garden. They are also perfectly capable of providing both ground cover and serving as living mulch. Chickens can also benefit from Nasturtium’s medicinal properties. It is also suggested that they can make for a natural wormer too. Because they are easy to grow, they can be sewn into various containers such as pots, raised beds, and hanging baskets. |
Earthly Comforts 
I’ve not heard of Nasturtium, Rory. Thank you for sharing this information. 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you also Eugenia, glad you enjoyed the read 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome, Rory.
LikeLiked by 1 person