Nasturtium ‘Alaska Mix’ Flower Seeds
Botanical name: Tropaeolum majus
Nasturtium ‘Alaska Mix’ combines colourful flowers in shades of yellow, orange, red and cream with distinctive green-and-white variegated foliage. Its compact, bushy habit makes it a practical choice for garden borders, containers and vegetable gardens, providing attractive foliage even before flowering begins.
The edible flowers and young leaves have a peppery flavour and can be used in salads and garnishes. Easy to grow from seed, Alaska Mix also provides flowers for visiting pollinators and suits edible gardens, cottage gardens and small-scale edible flower production.
Why Grow Alaska Mix Nasturtiums?
- Variegated foliage: Green leaves marbled with white add interest throughout the growing season.
- Colourful flowers: A cheerful mix of warm colours for borders, pots and mixed plantings.
- Edible flowers and leaves: Add peppery flavour and colour to fresh dishes.
- Compact growth: Reaches approximately 30–40 cm tall and suits smaller garden spaces.
- Simple to establish: Sow directly into well-drained soil where plants are to grow.
Plant Details
- Plant type: Annual.
- Height: Approximately 30–40 cm.
- Position: Full sun to part shade; afternoon shade can help in warmer areas.
- Soil: Well-drained soil with low to moderate fertility.
- Frost tolerance: Frost tender.
- Time to flowering: Approximately 8–10 weeks from sowing, depending on conditions.
When to Sow Nasturtium Alaska Mix in Australia
| Climate Zone | Sowing Season | Growing Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cool / Cold | Late spring to early summer | Sow after the risk of frost has passed. |
| Temperate | Spring; early autumn in mild, frost-free areas | Avoid extreme summer heat and allow time for plants to establish before cold weather. |
| Subtropical | Autumn to early spring | Usually performs best during the cooler months; hot, humid summers can reduce flowering. |
| Tropical | Autumn to winter | Choose the cooler, drier season and provide good drainage. |
| Arid / Semi-arid | Spring or autumn | Avoid peak summer heat and frost. Water regularly during establishment. |
Sowing seasons are a guide only. Adjust planting to suit local temperatures, frost risk and rainfall.
How to Grow Nasturtium Alaska Mix from Seed
- Sowing method: Direct sow into garden beds or containers.
- Sowing depth: 1–2 cm.
- Plant spacing: 25–30 cm apart.
- Germination soil temperature: Approximately 18–22°C.
- Germination time: Usually 7–14 days in suitable conditions.
- Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during germination. Once established, water as needed without waterlogging.
Growing Tips
Avoid excessive fertiliser, particularly high-nitrogen products, as this can encourage leafy growth rather than flowers. Remove spent blooms to encourage further flowering and keep plants tidy. Flowering is generally strongest in mild conditions and may slow during extreme heat.
Harvesting Edible Flowers and Leaves
Pick fresh, fully opened flowers and tender young leaves as needed. Harvest during the cooler part of the day and handle gently. For culinary use, grow plants without pesticides that are unsuitable for edible crops, and wash before eating.
Elaine Hart –
A great germination rate for these flowers. Very pleased with this. Thank you.