How to Grow Nasturtium in New Zealand
A classic aphid trap crop with edible flowers and leaves. Self-seeds freely, so pull stray seedlings if you want to keep it in check.
When to plant nasturtium in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | January, February, October, November, December |
| Auckland | January, February, October, November, December |
| Waikato & BoP | January, February, October, November, December |
| Wellington | January, February, October, November, December |
| Nelson & Marlborough | January, February, October, November, December |
| Canterbury | January, February, October, November, December |
| Otago & Southland | January, February, October, November, December |
| Central Otago | January, February, October, November, December |
Best nasturtium varieties for NZ
- Jewel Mixed — Compact bushy plants in a bright mix of red, orange and gold. Both leaves and flowers are edible with a peppery bite. (Yates NZ, Kings Plant Barn)
- Alaska Mix — Dwarf, non-trailing type with striking cream-variegated foliage and clear-toned flowers. Tidy enough for pots and edges. (Egmont Seeds)
- Tall Trailing Mix — Vigorous climbing and trailing form for banks, fences and difficult dry spots. Great aphid trap crop near the vege patch. (Kings Seeds)
How to grow nasturtium
- Space plants about 30cm apart.
- Sow seed around 1.5cm deep.
- Position: part shade.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 50 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 10 days.
Companion planting
Grow nasturtium near: Cucumber, Zucchini, Pumpkin, Beans, Fruit trees.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Nasturtium plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant nasturtium in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, February, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy nasturtium seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Yates NZ, Kings Plant Barn, Egmont Seeds.