Tip Top Apricot

Nasturtium

Zone 9b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Tip Top Apricot

🌱 50d to harvest Bush

Fragrant, sunset-bright blooms and peppery leaves arrive in a lush, trailing cascade—Tip Top Apricot paints gardens with warm apr…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Feb 9th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Feb 9th
Harvest Begins	Mar 31st
Harvest Ends	Dec 9th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	50
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Bush
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	50
Min Night Temp (°F)	32
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most common on Tropaeolum majus (Tip Top Apricot), and how do I treat it?

Tropaeolum majus commonly gets aphids and whitefly, which leave sticky honeydew and can stunt growth. Spray plants with a strong jet of water to knock pests off, then repeat every 2–3 days for a week; for heavier infestations, use insecticidal soap and cover leaf undersides. If you see powdery mildew (a gray-white dust on leaves), remove badly affected foliage and keep plants well-spaced with good airflow to reduce repeat outbreaks.

How often should I water Tip Top Apricot nasturtium during the main growing phase?

Water to keep soil evenly moist but not soggy once plants are established, typically about 1–2 times per week depending on heat. Aim for a light, consistent moisture level by watering when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry, since Tropaeolum majus will struggle in waterlogged beds. Avoid frequent shallow watering that keeps the surface wet, which increases leaf disease risk.

How can I tell when Tip Top Apricot (Tropaeolum majus) is ready to harvest?

Harvest flowers and leaves starting around 50 days after sowing, when plants are actively blooming. Pick flowers when they are fully colored and open for best flavor, and harvest leaves by cutting young, tender growth rather than older, tougher leaves. Continue harvesting regularly to encourage more blooms through the growing period.

Fragrant, sunset-bright blooms and peppery leaves arrive in a lush, trailing cascade—Tip Top Apricot paints gardens with warm apricot-orange petals that glow against deep green foliage. The flavor is lively and tangy with a gentle, apricot-kissed sweetness, while the tender leaves and blossoms offer a crisp, succulent bite. Grow Tip Top Apricot for fresh garnishes, vibrant salads, and eye-catching color in pickles and bright sauces—its blossoms are especially prized for their vivid, velvety charm.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 50°F and nights stay above 32°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

Sow nasturtium after frost in warm soil and give it lean conditions—too much fertilizer makes more foliage and fewer blooms.