Buy nasturtium Tropaeolum majus 'Empress of India': Delivery by Waitrose Garden

nasturtium - Tropaeolum majus 'Empress of India'

nasturtium

Eventual height & spread

nasturtium - Tropaeolum majus 'Empress of India'

nasturtium

approx 35 seeds
£3.39
In stock (shipped within 2-3 working days)

Delivery options

Seed Packets (only) £2.99
Named Day £10.99

Position: full sun
Soil: moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil, or general purpose potting compost for containers
Rate of growth: fast
Hardiness: tender annual

A classic, mound-forming Victorian variety with opulent, semi-double crimson flowers and contrasting purple-green foliage. Easy to grow and perfect for pots, tubs, window boxes or filling borders, ‘Empress of India’ has flower petals and leaves that are edible which can be used to add a peppery tang to to salads, cheese boards and cocktails.

Avoid overwatering or over-feeding (once per fortnight with a diluted liquid feed is ample) to avoid producing leaves at the expense of flowers. Requires minimal maintenance though a check for caterpillars and blackfly will help reduce incidence of defoliation. Dead-heading regularly will also encourage an even better display.

Soak the seeds overnight and then sow an early crop under glass in good seed compost, covering lightly. Maintain the temperature between 13-16°C (55-61°F) and water when necessary. When large enough to handle, pot on or acclimatise slowly and plant outside after all risk of frost has passed. Alternatively sow directly outside in mid to late spring.

Sow: March to June