Nasturtium microgreens are a vibrant and flavourful addition to any dish, offering both aesthetic appeal and a peppery zest similar to watercress or arugula. These greens are not only a delight to the palate but also pack a nutritional punch, making them a must try for home gardeners or an attractive addition to any microgreen range.
Nasturtium - Empress of India
Empress of India is the most popular Nasturtium microgreen variety. It features unique, dark green leaves, round leaves with striking white veins and a subtle blue rim. The pink stems add an extra visual appeal, making these microgreens perfect for garnishing. Their mild peppery flavour enhances dishes without overpowering them, making them a favourite among chefs and home cooks alike.
Growing Nasturtium Microgreens
What you’ll Need:
- Seeds: Use high quality seeds from trusted sources like Ausallium for best results.
- Growing Medium: Choose well-draining options like high-quality soil, hemp felt, or coconut coir.
- Tray or container: Any shallow tray with drainage holes will work well.
- Light source: Natural sunlight or grow lights.
- Water: Watering can or spray bottle to keep the medium consistently moist.
How to Grow:
Step 1: Seed Preparation
Soak seeds in warm water for up to 6 hours to soften their hard outer shell. This enhances germination and encourages uniform sprouting. Optionally, lightly scarify the seeds (rub with sandpaper or nick with a knife) to further improve germination rates.
Step 2: Planting
Fill a tray just below the rim with your choice of well-draining medium. Scatter the soaked seeds evenly across the surface, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Lightly cover with a thin layer of the growing medium.
Step 3: Germination
Cover the tray to keep the seeds in darkness for about 7 days or until germination. Maintain a warm environment and ensure consistent moisture. The dark period encourages strong root development and prevents premature sprouting.
Step 3: Growing
Around 7-10 days after planting, the seeds should have germinated. At this stage, uncover the tray and move it to a well-lit area with natural sunlight or grow lights. Continue to keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering. The microgreens will continue to develop their signature round leaves and vibrant stems.
Step 4: Harvesting
Nasturtium microgreens are typically ready for harvest within 3-4 weeks, once they have developed a couple of true leaves. Use clean scissors to snip them just above the soil level. They can be enjoyed fresh or stored for later use.
Nasturtiums can also be grown out to produce edible flowers, but this requires transplanting them into a larger container or garden bed.
For additional tips, refer to Ausallium's Easy Growing Guide!
Avoiding Common Growing Issues
Here are some troubleshooting tips for issues you may encounter growing nasturtium microgreens:
- Slow germination: Pre-soak seeds and ensure the growing environment remains warm.
- Mould: Avoid overwatering and provide adequate air circulation.
- Pests: Thrips, aphids and whiteflies can infest nasturtium plants. Make sure to regularly monitor and use pest control measures if necessary.
- Uneven growth: Inconsistent seed spacing, watering or light conditions can lead to uneven growth of the plant. Ensure all inputs are consistent to avoid this issue.
Storing Nasturtium Microgreens
To keep nasturtium microgreens fresh, store them in your fridge with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. They typically stay fresh for up to a week. Avoid washing them until just before use to make them last longer.
Health Benefits
Nasturtium microgreens are packed with essential nutrients that support overall health:
- Vitamins: A, C, K, and copper, which support immunity, skin health and blood clotting.
- Antioxidants: High levels of antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Potassium and fibre: These essential nutrients contribute to a balanced diet and support digestion.
Culinary Uses
Add these delicious microgreens to a variety of dishes to enhance flavour and nutrition. Can be used fresh or as a garnish for salads, sushi, sandwiches, soup and smoothies. Check out this article for more ways to cook with nasturtiums. Pairs well with milder microgreens to add nutritional value and flavour.
Final Thoughts:
Nasturtium is a fantastic addition to any microgreen range, offering both visual appeal and unique peppery flavour. Whether you’re growing at home for personal use or adding to your commercial range, they provide a simple yet rewarding crop. Their versatility in uses and impressive health benefits make them a top choice for chefs and microgreen lovers.
Try growing your own nasturtium microgreens from Ausallium today!
