If you are planning to grow nasturtiums in your garden, it’s important to know how much cold they can tolerate. These beautiful, vibrant flowers are a great addition to any garden or patio, but they are not invincible to colder temperatures. So, how cold can nasturtiums tolerate? The answer is not that straightforward, and it largely depends on the variety of nasturtiums you are growing.
Most nasturtiums, in general, can tolerate mild, frost-free temperatures ranging from 40-50°F (4-10°C). However, some varieties can withstand even the colder temperatures of 20-30°F (-6 to -1°C) without any damage. But if you live in an area where the temperature can drop below 20°F, planting nasturtiums might not be the best idea.
In general, nasturtiums prefer warmer temperatures to thrive, and colder temperatures can cause the leaves to wilt and decrease the plant’s overall vigor. However, don’t let that discourage you from planting these gorgeous blooms; with the right care and attention, nasturtiums can survive and even thrive in cooler weather conditions. So, if you’re a gardening enthusiast looking to add a pop of color to your garden, nasturtiums are a great option, but it’s essential to understand their temperature tolerance to ensure that they grow healthy and strong.
Ideal Temperature Range for Nasturtiums
As with any plant, the temperature range is crucial for the success of nasturtiums. These vibrant and easy-to-grow flowers thrive in a range of temperatures but prefer cooler conditions, making them a great addition to any garden or balcony in temperate climates. Ideally, nasturtiums should be grown in temperatures between 60°F (15.5°C) and 70°F (21°C) during the day and around 50°F (10°C) during the night.
- Temperatures below 45°F (7°C) can cause frost damage and potentially kill the plant.
- In warmer climates, nasturtiums can be grown during the cooler months or in areas with partial shade to protect them from direct sun exposure.
- If you’re growing nasturtiums indoors, be sure to keep them away from heat sources like radiators or heating vents as they prefer cooler temperatures.
The ideal temperature range for nasturtiums also depends on the stage of growth. During the germination stage, which can take up to two weeks, the seeds should be kept at a constant temperature of around 65°F (18°C) for optimal growth. Once the seeds have germinated and the plants have sprouted leaves, they can be moved to a cooler location with more sunlight.
It’s important to note that nasturtiums are annual plants, meaning they only live for one growing season. However, they do self-seed, so you may see new plants sprout up the following year.
| Temperature Range | Effects on Nasturtiums |
|---|---|
| 60°F – 70°F (15.5°C – 21°C) during the day | Optimal conditions for growth |
| Above 70°F (21°C) during the day | Nasturtiums can wilt or stop growing |
| Below 50°F (10°C) during the night | Plants can be damaged or killed by frost |
By keeping these ideal temperature ranges in mind, you can ensure your nasturtiums thrive and add a colorful touch to your garden or home.
Factors that affect nasturtiums’ tolerance to cold
Nasturtiums boast a colorful and edible flowers that are often used to garnish salads or dishes. They are also relatively easy to grow and maintain, making them a popular option for gardeners. However, like any other plant, they have specific needs that should be met for them to grow healthy and strong. One of these needs is a favorable temperature. While nasturtiums can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, they are not immune to the negative effects of extreme weather conditions.
- Plant variety: Some nasturtiums are more tolerant to cold than others. It is important to choose the right variety that can withstand the lowest temperature in your area. The ‘Alaska’ and ‘Whirlybird’ types, for instance, are known for their cold-resistant properties.
- Age of the plant: Young nasturtiums are generally more vulnerable to cold stress than mature ones. Seedlings should be kept in a warm and protected environment until they are strong enough to face the outside world.
- Location: The location of the plant can also affect its temperature tolerance. Nasturtiums grown in pots or containers can be moved to a sheltered area during extreme cold or frosty nights. On the other hand, those planted directly on the ground are more exposed to environmental factors, and may need additional protection during the winter months.
Aside from these factors, there are also specific temperatures that nasturtiums can tolerate depending on their growth stage. The following table shows the temperature range that is safe for nasturtiums at different growth stages:
| Growth Stage | Temperature Range (°F) |
|---|---|
| Germination | 65-70 |
| Seedlings | 55-60 |
| Vegetative phase | 50-60 |
| Flowering phase | 50-60 |
It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to temperature tolerance. If you are unsure whether your nasturtiums can withstand the cold, it is recommended to provide them with some protection like frost blankets or a makeshift greenhouse. Proper preparation and care will help ensure that your nasturtiums thrive in any weather condition.
Signs of cold damage in nasturtiums
As winter approaches, it is crucial to pay attention to your garden for any signs of damage. Nasturtiums are known for their resilience and adaptability to different environments, but extreme cold can still cause problems for them. Here are some of the signs to look out for:
- Yellowing leaves: One of the first signs of cold damage in nasturtiums is yellowing leaves. If the leaves are turning yellow and falling off, it could be a sign that the plant is stressed from the cold.
- Blackened stems: Another common sign of cold damage is blackened stems. This occurs when the cold temperatures cause the cells in the stem to burst and die. The stem will look black or wilted, and the plant may start to droop.
- Brown or mushy leaves: If the leaves of your nasturtiums are turning brown or becoming mushy, it could be a sign of frost damage. Nasturtiums can tolerate light frosts, but a hard frost can cause serious damage.
If you notice any of these signs in your nasturtiums, it is essential to act quickly to save the plant. Here are some steps you can take:
First, remove any damaged or dead stems or leaves from the plant. This will encourage new growth and prevent the spread of disease.
Second, give the plant a good drink of water. This will help to rehydrate the plant and can boost its overall health.
Third, cover the plant with a blanket or cloth to protect it from further cold damage. The cover should be removed during the day to allow the plant to get sunlight and fresh air.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. If you live in an area with particularly cold winters, consider planting your nasturtiums in a protected area or in a container that can be moved indoors during the coldest months.
| Cold tolerance of nasturtiums | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Moderate tolerance | 30-32 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 to 0 degrees Celsius) |
| Light frost tolerance | 26-28 degrees Fahrenheit (-2 to -4 degrees Celsius) |
| Hard frost intolerance | 22-24 degrees Fahrenheit (-5 to -7 degrees Celsius) |
By being aware of the signs of cold damage in nasturtiums and taking proper precautions, you can enjoy beautiful and healthy plants all year round.
Tips for Protecting Nasturtiums from Frost
If you want to keep your nasturtiums alive and healthy during the winter season, it is critical to know how much cold they can tolerate. Nasturtiums are relatively hardy plants, but they have their limits when it comes to frost and freezing temperatures. Here are some tips for protecting your nasturtiums from frost and ensuring that they thrive despite the cold weather:
- Choose the right variety: Certain varieties of nasturtiums are better equipped to handle cold temperatures. For example, the Alaska Series and the Empress of India are more tolerant of frost than other types of nasturtiums.
- Plant at the right time: Nasturtiums are most susceptible to frost damage when they are young and tender. To reduce the risk of damage, it is recommended to plant your nasturtiums at the appropriate time of year and when the threat of frost is minimal. Also, make sure to avoid planting them too early in the season when the soil is still cold.
- Provide a protective barrier: You can place a protective barrier such as cloths, blankets, or tarps over your nasturtiums during the colder months to help insulate them from the frost and cold. Ensure that the covering used is not too heavy to avoid damaging the stems and leaves of the plant.
In addition to the tips above, there are a few other things you can do to safeguard your nasturtiums during the winter months:
- Monitor weather conditions: Pay close attention to the weather forecast to keep track of any sudden temperature dips, frost, or unexpected snowfall that might put your nasturtiums at risk.
- Keep the soil moist: During the winter months, it is often necessary to water your nasturtiums regularly. This is because the colder temperatures can cause the soil to dry out quickly. Be sure to check the soil’s moisture levels regularly and mix in a few inches of mulch to help retain moisture.
- Consider indoor planting: If you want to avoid the winter chill altogether, you can try planting your nasturtiums indoors in pots. This allows you to regulate the temperature and humidity and keep them at optimal levels, gardening indoors means you’ll save your plants from harsh winter conditions.
Frost Tolerance of Nasturtiums
While nasturtiums are reasonably hardy plants that can withstand cold temperatures, they do have their limitations. The freezing point for nasturtiums may vary, but they can typically tolerate frost down to 25-30°F. Temperatures below this range can cause frost damage or death to your plants.
| Temperature | Possible Effects |
|---|---|
| 25-30°F | Limited Frost Damage |
| 20-25°F | Moderate Frost Damage |
| Below 20°F | High Risk of Death |
It is important to note that the above table is a general guideline. External factors such as the moisture levels and the length of exposure to the freezing temperatures also impacts how much frost and cold your nasturtiums can handle.
With the above tips and the table as your guide to nasturtiums’ frost tolerance, you’re on the way to protecting your plants from the cold, ensuring they live through the harsh winter season.
How to revive frost-damaged nasturtiums
While nasturtiums are known to be hardy plants, they can still fall victim to frost damage under certain conditions. When the temperature drops below freezing, the tender parts of the plant, such as the leaves and stems, can turn black and mushy. If left unattended, the frost-damaged nasturtiums may wither away completely and die.
If you notice frost damage on your nasturtiums, don’t panic. While the damage can be unsightly, there are some steps you can take to revive your plants and nurse them back to health. Here are some tips:
- Stop watering the plant. Excess moisture can make the frost damage worse and encourage fungal growth.
- Remove the damaged parts of the plant. This will help prevent further damage and also promote new growth.
- Prune the plant. Cut back any leggy or straggly stems to encourage bushier growth and better flowering.
Once you’ve removed the damaged parts and pruned the plant, it’s time to take care of the remaining healthy parts. Here are some additional tips:
1. Provide proper care:
Give the plant proper care by ensuring it gets enough sunlight, water, and fertilizer to help it recover. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, and use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks to help with recovery.
2. Use compost:
Mix compost into the soil to help feed the plant and aid in its recovery.
3. Cover with frost cloth:
If you live in a frost-prone area, consider covering your plant with frost cloth to protect it from further damage. This cloth will help regulate temperature and create a barrier between the plant and the harsh environment.
| Dos | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Do provide proper care, sunlight, water, and fertilizer to the nasturtiums for their full revival. | Don’t water the plant excessively as it may worsen the frost damage. |
| Do remove the damaged and dead parts of the plant to avoid further damage. | Don’t leave the frost damage untreated as it may kill the plant entirely. |
| Do prune the plant back to encourage new growth. | Don’t over-prune the plant and remove all the growth as it may harm the nasturtium. |
With the above tips, reviving frost-damaged nasturtiums is easy and achievable. Above all, be patient in the recovery process and give your plants time to heal.
Nasturtium varieties that are more cold-tolerant
If you live in an area with cold winters, you may think that growing nasturtiums is impossible. However, some varieties of nasturtiums are more cold-tolerant than others. Here are a few of the best nasturtium varieties for colder climates:
- Alaska Series: These nasturtiums are bred specifically for colder climates. They have compact growth and vibrant flowers in shades of orange, red, and yellow.
- Jewel Series: This series of nasturtiums also handles the cold well, with an extended bloom time and large, double-petaled flowers.
- Moonlight: This white-flowered variety of nasturtiums is surprisingly cold-tolerant. It adds a touch of elegance to any garden and can handle temperatures well below freezing.
When selecting your nasturtium varieties, look for those that have been bred for cold tolerance. The above varieties have been specifically selected for their ability to handle colder temperatures.
Harvesting and storage of nasturtiums during colder temperatures
Nasturtiums are the perfect addition to any cold-weather garden. However, if you want to ensure your plants thrive and bloom, it’s important to know how to harvest and store them properly when the temperature drops. Follow these tips:
- Harvesting: Nasturtiums are at their best from late spring to mid-fall, so plan your harvesting during this period. Choose a dry day and pick the flowers in the morning when the dew has dried off the petals. Gently pull the flowers off the stem, making sure to keep the stem as intact as possible.
- Storage: Once you’ve harvested your nasturtiums, you’ll need to store them properly, so they don’t wilt or dry out quickly. The ideal storage temperature for nasturtiums is around 40-50°F (4-10°C). You can wrap the flowers in damp paper towels or damp florist foam and place them in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep the nasturtiums away from ripening fruits and vegetables, which release ethylene gas that can cause flowers to wilt or decay quicker.
- Maintaining freshness: If you want to extend the life of your nasturtiums, change the damp paper towels or florist foam every few days. You can also trim the stems diagonally, which will let them absorb more water and keep them fresher for longer. Be sure to remove any leaves that come into contact with the water, as this can promote bacterial growth.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the vibrant colors and spicy flavor of nasturtiums in your garden and kitchen all year round.
How Cold Can Nasturtiums Tolerate: FAQs
1. Can I plant nasturtiums in the fall?
Yes, you can plant nasturtiums in the fall. Nasturtiums can tolerate light frosts and can survive until temperatures fall to 23°F (-5°C).
2. Do nasturtiums need to be covered during frost?
Yes, it’s a good idea to cover your nasturtiums with a protective layer of mulch or frost blanket during frosty nights. However, remember to remove the cover once the sun comes out to prevent overheating.
3. Will nasturtiums survive a hard freeze?
Unfortunately, nasturtiums are tender annuals and won’t survive a hard freeze. They are only tolerant of light frosts and cool temperatures.
4. Can nasturtiums grow in the winter?
Nasturtiums are summer annuals that thrive in warm weather. They don’t grow well in the winter and may die if exposed to frosty temperatures.
5. How can I protect my nasturtiums during winter?
If you live in a climate with harsh winters, it’s best to grow nasturtiums in containers that you can move indoors during winter. Alternatively, you can replant them in the spring or start new plants from seeds.
6. What is the ideal temperature range for nasturtiums?
Nasturtiums prefer warm temperatures ranging between 65°F and 75°F (18°C – 24°C) and can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C).
7. Can nasturtiums survive in a frost-freeze zone?
If you live in a frost-freeze zone, you can grow nasturtiums year-round. They prefer warm temperatures and good drainage and require occasional watering and fertilization to thrive.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for reading our article on “How Cold Can Nasturtiums Tolerate.” We hope you found the FAQs helpful in answering your questions. Remember, nasturtiums are hardy plants that can tolerate light frosts and cool temperatures but won’t survive a hard freeze. If you live in a climate with harsh winters, consider growing your nasturtiums in containers and move them indoors. We wish you all the best in your gardening endeavors and hope to see you again soon.