Growing Nasturtiums in Zone 5A

Nasturtiums are edible, pest-trapping flowers with peppery leaves and vibrant blooms.

Zone 5A has a moderate growing season. Most crops do well here with proper timing around frost dates.

Top Growing Tips

• Direct sow after frost — they don’t transplant well
• Use as trap crops for aphids — they attract pests away from vegetables
• Flowers, leaves, and seeds are all edible (peppery, like watercress)
• Too-rich soil produces lots of leaves but fewer flowers
• Trailing varieties are beautiful in hanging baskets and window boxes

Companion Planting

Good companions: tomatoes, cucumbers, cabbage, beans — excellent trap crop

Avoid planting near: none — nasturtiums are beneficial companions

Harvest Timeline

Flowering begins 50-60 days from seed; use flowers and leaves fresh

About Zone 5A

USDA Hardiness Zone 5A has an average last spring frost around Apr 25 and first fall frost around Oct 8. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.