Alaska Nasturtium

Nasturtium

Zone 1a Save Garden

🌱 50d to harvest Spreading

Vivid, cool-weather blooms and peppery, bright flavor make Alaska Nasturtium a standout for gardeners who want instant sensory pa…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Jun 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Jun 15th
Harvest Begins	Aug 4th
Harvest Ends	Jul 15th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	50
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Spreading
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	50
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I manage powdery mildew on Alaska nasturtiums?

Powdery mildew shows up as a white, flour-like coating on nasturtium leaves, usually starting on older foliage. Remove and discard the worst leaves, improve airflow by spacing plants (and thinning seedlings if they’re crowded), and water at the soil line so foliage stays dry. If it keeps spreading, spray with an organic sulfur or potassium bicarbonate product labeled for powdery mildew on edible flowers.

How often should I water Alaska nasturtium during the main growing phase?

During active leaf and flower growth, keep the soil consistently lightly moist—about 1 inch deep—without waterlogging. In full sun, water about 2–3 times per week depending on heat and wind, then slow down once plants are established and only water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. Avoid frequent shallow watering that leaves nasturtiums stressed and more prone to mildew.

When are Alaska nasturtiums ready to harvest?

Alaska nasturtiums are typically ready to harvest in about 50 days from sowing, with the best harvest starting when flowers first open. Pick leaves and flower buds regularly for continuous production; young leaves are most tender before they get thick or dark. For seed harvest, wait until pods turn brown and rattle lightly on the plant, then collect and dry the pods a few days.

Vivid, cool-weather blooms and peppery, bright flavor make Alaska Nasturtium a standout for gardeners who want instant sensory payoff. The tender leaves and crisp, juicy seed pods deliver a clean bite—pungent yet fresh—ideal for roasting, quick pickling, and adding lively character to salads and garnishes. Expect a vigorous, compact habit with fast results in about 50 days, so you can enjoy harvests early and often.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 50°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

For the best peppery flavor, grow nasturtiums in full sun and avoid over-fertilizing (leaner soil produces more flowers).