Why Nasturtiums? Well, other than memories from My Suburban Roots, here are a few thing that I have learned since starting my off-grid homestead lifestyle:
Why You Should Grow Nasturtiums in Your Garden! Nasturtiums are more than just pretty faces in the garden—they’re hardworking companions for pollinators and your veggies! Pollinator Paradise These vibrant blooms attract bees, butterflies, and even hummingbirds, offering a reliable nectar source throughout the season. Their open-faced flowers make it easy for pollinators to access the good stuff! Garden Protector Nasturtiums are great companion plants. They act as a trap crop, drawing away aphids, whiteflies, and cabbage loopers from more vulnerable plants like tomatoes, cucumbers, kale, and broccoli.
Soil Superstars Their shallow roots help with weed suppression, and when left to sprawl, they create a living mulch, keeping the soil cool and moist. Bonus: they can even improve soil health when chopped and dropped as green manure.
Edible Beauty Yes, you can eat them! Both leaves and flowers are edible, with a peppery kick similar to arugula—perfect in salads or as a garnish.
Easy to Grow Tuck the seeds right into the ground after the last frost. They thrive in poor soil, don’t need much water, and practically grow themselves—ideal for low-maintenance or off-grid gardens.
A Win-Win for Wildlife and You! By planting nasturtiums, you’re not just adding color to your homestead—you’re building a more resilient, biodiverse garden that supports your ecosystem.