Tropaeolum majus 'Alaska Mixed'

Did you know that the leaves of nasturtiums are edible as well as the flowers?  This variety is amazing because it is the only type of nasturtium that has leaves that are marbled with white.  Use them to decorate your dishes alongside the flowers.  'Alaska' also provides a rainbow of colours, so you will have a little bit of everything.

Nasturtiums are incredibly easy to grow, and they drop so many seeds that it is likely you will never have to sow them again.  They act as a wonderful ground cover, protecting and shading your soil, and they are perfect for filling in gaps or for spilling over the edge of borders and containers.  

This is such a beautiful and useful flower.  Watch the bees go crazy as they climb inside the big trumpet-like blooms.  You can also pinch of the pointy tip of the back of the flower and quickly suck out the nectar for a sweet treat...  Show your kids how to do this - they will absolutely love it. 

You can also collect the seeds when they are plump and green {just before they are dry/ dropping} and pickle them.  Some people call these 'Nasturtium Capers' or 'Poor Man's Capers' and they are peppery and delicious!  Here is a good recipe and something fun and different to try in the kitchen.

NASTURTIUM CAPERS RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh, green nasturtium seeds, washed
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tablespoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon raw sugar
• Any herb or spice of your choice - I like to add some peppercorns, mustard seeds, and a few sprigs of dill from the garden

Method

Add your washed nasturtium seeds, fresh herbs, and spices to a clean, glass jar.  In a small saucepan, add the water, vinegar, salt, and sugar, and bring to a boil.  Pour the boiled liquid into the jar to cover the nasturtium seeds.  Seal and store in a cool, dark place for two weeks.  Enjoy! {From then on, best to keep in the fridge.}  

- If you have any questions about sowing and growing your seeds, please feel free to get in touch with me.  Every seed I sell I grow myself so I am always here for you at any step along the way.

- 20 seeds