SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

Milkmaid

Nasturtium
Zone 11a Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add Milkmaid to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.
Botanical illustration of Milkmaid
50d to harvest

Fragrant, honeyed blossoms open in a riot of warm apricot-orange and buttery cream, each petal edged like a satin ribbon—an instant garden perfume. Milkmaid nasturtium bears tender, succulent leaves with a gentle, peppery snap and a clean, milky sweetness that shines in fresh bouquets and vibrant garnishes. Grow it for a long season of nonstop color and a lush, trailing habit that drapes beautifully over containers, borders, and trellises.

Crop Dates

Growing note: In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).
MilestoneDate
Start Indoors—
ClimateFrost-Free Climate
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsOct 1st
Harvest BeginsNov 20th
Harvest EndsFeb 28th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity50
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitSpreading
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)70
Min Soil Temp (°F)50
Min Night Temp (°F)40
Harden Off (days)5

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Milkmaid in Zone 11a typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 50°F before transplanting Milkmaid.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Tropaeolum majus (milkmaid/nasturtium), and how can I treat it?
Watch for aphids and caterpillars, which often cluster on the tender shoots and buds of Tropaeolum majus. Spray aphids off with a strong stream of water and use insecticidal soap for repeat outbreaks; for chewing caterpillars, hand-pick in the evening and treat with Bt if needed. In humid conditions, keep airflow good and remove any yellowing leaves early to reduce gray mold and leaf spot.
How often should I water Tropaeolum majus during the main growing phase?
Water deeply only when the top 1–2 inches of soil feel dry, because Tropaeolum majus performs best with evenly moist but not waterlogged soil. During active flowering, aim for about 1 inch of water per week total (from rainfall plus irrigation), adjusting up or down based on heat and container vs. in-ground conditions. Avoid frequent light watering, which can keep foliage wet and invite leaf spot.
Botanical illustration of Milkmaid

Fragrant, honeyed blossoms open in a riot of warm apricot-orange and buttery cream, each petal edged like a satin ribbon—an instant garden perfume. Milkmaid nasturtium bears tender, succulent leaves with a gentle, peppery snap and a clean, milky sweetness that shines in fresh bouquets and vibrant garnishes. Grow it for a long season of nonstop color and a lush, trailing habit that drapes beautifully over containers, borders, and trellises.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for Milkmaid in Zone 11a typically begins around 2026-10-01. Wait until soil reaches at least 50°F before transplanting Milkmaid.

Garden Alerts

In frost-free Zone 11a, grow this cool-season crop during the cooler dry season (October–February).

Sowing Tips

Soil Temperature

Direct sow or transplant when soil at planting depth holds 50°F for reliable germination and early growth.

Direct Sow Preferred

Sensitive roots — does not transplant well. If starting indoors, use biodegradable pots and disturb roots as little as possible when moving outdoors.

Expert Note

For the best creamy blooms and fewer weak stems, sow after the soil warms and avoid excess nitrogen—nasturtiums prefer leaner soil.