Whirlybird Cherry Rose

Nasturtium

Zone 2b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Whirlybird Cherry Rose

🌱 50d to harvest Spreading

Fragrant, whirl-like blooms of Whirlybird Cherry Rose burst in a vivid rose-cherry blaze, carrying a peppery lift that’s bright a…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	May 15th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 15th
Harvest Begins	Jul 4th
Harvest Ends	Aug 25th

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)	55
Min Night Temp (°F)	40
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Recommended Companions

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease most often affects Tropaeolum majus (Whirlybird Cherry Rose), and how do I control it?

Nasturtiums like Tropaeolum majus commonly suffer from aphids and occasional fungal leaf spot in humid, crowded conditions. Start by blasting aphids off with a strong stream of water, then remove heavily spotted leaves and improve airflow by spacing plants. If leaf spot keeps spreading, spray an appropriate copper-based fungicide and avoid wetting the foliage during watering.

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

During active growth, water when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, then water deeply so moisture reaches the root zone. Aim for consistently moist (not soggy) soil because Tropaeolum majus will decline quickly in waterlogged beds. In full sun, containers typically need more frequent checks than in-ground plants.

How can I tell when Whirlybird Cherry Rose (Tropaeolum majus) is ready to harvest?

Harvest flowers once plants are established and producing for several weeks—typically around 50 days from sowing for best results, but you should pick as soon as blooms open. Pick individual blossoms for use in salads or garnishes and harvest seeds only when seed pods turn firm and change from green to pale/gray-brown on the plant. Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage continued flowering.

Fragrant, whirl-like blooms of Whirlybird Cherry Rose burst in a vivid rose-cherry blaze, carrying a peppery lift that’s bright and clean. The petals are tender and velvety, with a lively bite that shines in fresh garnishes and quick pickles, while the leaves bring a crisp, garden-green snap. Grow this flowering annual for a long season of edible color—perfect for beds, borders, and containers where its cascading charm can spill over and perform.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 55°F and nights stay above 40°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Sow where you want it (or direct-sow outdoors) because nasturtiums resent root disturbance, and give them full sun for the best bloom intensity.