Whirlybird Mix

Nasturtium

40d to harvest

A whirl of color in the garden—Whirlybird Mix bursts with vivid, warm blooms that open like little pinwheels and carry a peppery, bright bite. The tender leaves are crisp and pleasantly pungent, while the flower petals add a lively, tangy accent that shines in fresh salads and garnishes. Grow it for a quick, 40-day show: a pollinator-friendly cover that keeps flowering as it sprawls, perfect for adding instant color and flavor to beds, borders, and containers.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 10a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	—
Climate	Frost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Oct 1st
Harvest Begins	Nov 10th
Harvest Ends	Feb 28th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	40
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Spreading
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	65
Min Soil Temp (°F)	50
Min Night Temp (°F)	40
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Tropaeolum majus (nasturtium), and how can I treat it?

Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) commonly suffer from aphids, which cluster on tender shoots and can leave plants sticky with honeydew. Rinse aphids off with a strong jet of water, then spray insecticidal soap (follow label directions) if they return. Also watch for leaf spot in humid weather—remove badly spotted leaves early and keep airflow between plants.

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

Water deeply when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, aiming for consistently lightly moist soil rather than wet conditions. During active flowering, this typically means watering about 2–3 times per week in warm weather, but less often if it rains or soil stays cool. Avoid keeping the soil waterlogged, which increases the risk of root problems and leaf spotting.

How do I know when Tropaeolum majus is ready to harvest?

Harvest seed pods and flowers based on maturity: flowers are best when fully open and fragrant, usually starting around 40 days from sowing. For seed, pick pods when they turn green-to-brown and feel firm, before they fully dry and drop. For continuous blooms, harvest flowers regularly and remove spent blossoms to encourage more flowering.