How to Care for Saint Joseph flowers

Saint Joseph flowers, also known as nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus), Scottish Flame flower, Empress of India, Canary Creeper or Indian Cress, are drought- and disease-resistant summer flowers that are available in a wide range of brilliant colors including yellow, orange and red, as well as variegated. The flower and the leaves are edible and add a spicy crunch to salads and coleslaw. Native to the mountain regions of South America, variates include dense bushy plants and long trailing types. These easy-to-care-for bright summer annuals are a welcome addition to container plantings and gardens everywhere.

Instructions

1. Plant seeds in nutrient-rich soil in a well-drained location. Do not add nitrogen as this will cause the flowers to produce an abundance of foliage and very few flowers.

2. Saint Joseph flowers or nasturtiums prefer lots of bright sunlight, but also prefer to be shaded in the heat of the day.

3. Water as required. Nasturtiums are quite tolerant of drought but will flourish with regular watering.

4. Pick off or "dead-head" spent blooms to encourage flowering.

Tips & Warnings

• If you choose to add nasturtiums to salads or dressings, use only flowers that have been raised organically and not subjected to toxic pesticides or fertilizers.

References

• Tropaeolum majus
• Using Nastursium Flowers & Leaves
• Annual Flowers - Maintenance