Alaska Mix

Family: Tropaeolaceae Flower / Herb

A peppery burst of color—tender nasturtium blooms in a lively Alaska Mix—arrive with a bright, jewel-like charm and a zingy, garden-fresh bite.

Expect succulent, rounded leaves and crisp, juicy stems that lend a pleasantly crunchy texture, while the flowers bring a vivid mix of warm tones for garnishing and flavor-forward salads. Grow for quick, 30-day gratification and a continuous show of edible blossoms that brighten every plate with their distinctive tang.

Light: Full SunMaturity: 30 DaysHabit: Upright

Planting schedules and alerts are optimized for Columbus (Zone 6b).

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Apr 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Apr 25th
Harvest Begins	May 25th
Harvest Ends	Oct 16th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	30
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	55
Min Night Temp (°F)	40
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Culinary Notes

Chef's Note

This nasturtium mix is the rare edible flower that brings actual attitude—peppery, juicy, and crunchy—so it holds up on the plate instead of wilting into perfume. Use the blooms and stems late, so the tang stays vivid and the heat stays clean.

Best Uses

toss into mixed greens right before serving for a snappy, peppery lift
use as an edible-flower garnish on tacos, roasted chicken, and grilled fish
fold chopped leaves and tender stems into quick herb vinaigrettes
finish soups and grain bowls with flowers for a fresh, zingy pop

Flavor Profile

peppery, watercress-like bite succulent crunch from juicy stems and leaves bright, citrusy tang from warm-toned blooms gentle heat that stays crisp rather than bitter

Kitchen Pairings

lemon aged goat cheese honey white wine vinegar chilled cucumber (avoid per preference only if you choose not to use it) butter (brown or cultured)

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Tropaeolum majus (Alaska Mix), and how can I control it?

A frequent issue on nasturtiums is aphids, which cluster on tender new growth and can stunt plants. Spray affected stems with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap, repeating every 5–7 days until new growth is clear. Keep foliage dry by watering at the soil line and improving airflow, because damp leaves encourage leaf spot fungi.

How often should I water Tropaeolum majus during its main growing phase?

Water regularly to establish plants, keeping the top 1 inch of soil lightly moist, then shift to watering only when the top inch begins to dry. During the rapid growth phase, this usually means about 2–3 times per week in warm weather, less if it’s rainy. Avoid consistently wet soil—nasturtiums decline in soggy ground and produce fewer flowers.

How can I tell when Tropaeolum majus (Alaska Mix) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when blooms are open and the flowers are crisp, typically about 30 days from sowing for plants grown from seed. For leaves, pick young, tender foliage early in the season for best flavor and texture. If you’re harvesting seeds, wait until the seed pods turn firm and green-to-brown before cutting and drying.