As a gardening and landscaping expert, I can provide you with some insights on whether soaking nasturtium seeds before planting is necessary. While soaking seeds in water overnight can be beneficial for some plant varieties, nasturtium seeds actually sprout best when the soil is warm. So, in the case of nasturtium seeds, soaking them before planting is not necessary.
Nasturtiums are warm-season annuals that prefer a soil temperature of around 70°F (21°C) for optimal germination. Soaking the seeds in water might speed up the germination process for some plants, but in the case of nasturtiums, it is more important to ensure that the soil is warm enough.
To plant nasturtium seeds, you can follow these steps:
1. Choose a suitable location: Nasturtiums thrive in full sun to partial shade, so select a spot in your garden that receives at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. They also prefer well-draining soil.
2. Prepare the soil: Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris. Loosen the soil to a depth of about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) using a garden fork or tiller. This will help ensure good root penetration and drainage.
3. Plant the seeds: Nasturtium seeds can be poked into the soil about 1 inch (3 cm) deep and should be spaced approximately 3 inches (8 cm) apart. If you are planting in rows, leave about 12 inches (30 cm) of space between each row to allow for proper air circulation.
4. Water the seeds: After planting, water the area gently to settle the soil and ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to rotting of the seeds or seedlings.
5. Maintain proper care: Once the seeds have been planted, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Regularly check the moisture level of the soil and water as needed. As the seedlings emerge, continue to water them regularly to promote healthy growth.
6. Enjoy the blooms: Nasturtiums typically germinate within 7-10 days, depending on the soil temperature and conditions. With proper care and maintenance, you can expect colorful blooms in about 8-12 weeks from planting.
In my personal experience, I have found that nasturtium seeds readily germinate without the need for soaking. The key is to ensure that the soil is warm enough and that you provide proper care and maintenance throughout the growing season.
To summarize, soaking nasturtium seeds before planting is not necessary. Instead, focus on providing a warm soil temperature and proper care to promote successful germination and growth of your nasturtium plants.
