Where Can I Buy Nasturtium Plants Near Me?

AvatarBySheryl Ackerman General Planting

If you’re looking to add a splash of vibrant color and easy-care charm to your garden or home, nasturtium plants are an excellent choice. Known for their bright, cheerful flowers and edible leaves, these versatile plants bring both beauty and utility to any green space. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner eager to cultivate something delightful, knowing where to buy nasturtium plants can make all the difference in starting your growing journey on the right foot.

Finding the perfect nasturtium plants involves more than just a quick trip to the nearest garden center. With options ranging from local nurseries to online specialty stores, the availability and quality of plants can vary widely. Understanding the best sources ensures you get healthy, vibrant plants that will thrive in your environment. Additionally, considering factors like plant variety, size, and delivery options can help tailor your purchase to your specific gardening needs.

In the following sections, we’ll explore various reliable places to buy nasturtium plants, highlighting the pros and cons of each. Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or the personal touch of a local grower, you’ll find valuable insights to guide your choice. Get ready to discover where to find these charming plants and how to select the best ones for your garden’s success.

Where to Buy Nasturtium Plants

When looking to purchase nasturtium plants, several reliable sources can provide healthy, high-quality specimens suited for your gardening needs. Understanding where to buy these plants ensures you receive vigorous growth and vibrant blooms.

Local Garden Centers and Nurseries
Many local garden centers and nurseries stock nasturtium plants, especially during the spring planting season. These outlets often carry a variety of nasturtium cultivars, including both trailing and bush types, allowing you to select the best fit for your garden design. Buying locally also gives you the advantage of seeing the plants in person before purchase, ensuring their health and vigor.

Farmers Markets and Plant Sales
Seasonal farmers markets and community plant sales can be excellent sources for nasturtiums. These venues often feature plants grown by local gardeners who may offer unique varieties not commonly found in retail stores. Additionally, purchasing from local growers supports community businesses and reduces the environmental impact associated with shipping.

Online Plant Retailers
For gardeners seeking convenience and a wider selection, online plant retailers provide an extensive range of nasturtium plants and seeds. Reputable websites specialize in heirloom and rare varieties, often accompanied by detailed growing instructions. When ordering online, consider shipping times and packaging quality to ensure plants arrive healthy.

Specialty Seed Companies
If you prefer to grow nasturtiums from seed, specialty seed companies offer packets of seeds with detailed descriptions of each variety’s characteristics. This option allows for greater control over the growth process and is cost-effective for planting large areas. Many seed suppliers provide organic or non-GMO options.

Big-Box Stores and Home Improvement Centers
Large retail chains and home improvement stores typically carry nasturtium plants during peak planting seasons. While convenient, the variety selection may be limited, and plant quality can vary. It is advisable to inspect plants carefully for signs of pests or disease before purchasing.

Comparing Sources for Nasturtium Plants

When choosing where to buy nasturtium plants, consider factors such as plant variety, quality, price, and convenience. The table below summarizes the key attributes of various purchasing options:

Source Variety Selection Plant Quality Price Range Convenience
Local Garden Centers Moderate High (in-person selection) Moderate to High High
Farmers Markets / Plant Sales Varies (often unique) Good to High Low to Moderate Seasonal
Online Plant Retailers Wide Variable (depends on shipping) Moderate Very High
Specialty Seed Companies Very Wide N/A (seeds) Low High
Big-Box Stores Limited Variable Low to Moderate High

Tips for Selecting Healthy Nasturtium Plants

Choosing healthy nasturtium plants is essential for successful establishment and flowering. When purchasing, consider the following criteria:

  • Leaf Color and Texture: Look for vibrant green leaves without yellowing, spotting, or holes that indicate pest damage.
  • Stem Strength: Sturdy, upright stems are a sign of robust plants ready to thrive.
  • Root System: If possible, gently check the root ball for a well-developed network without signs of rot or dryness.
  • Absence of Pests: Inspect under leaves and around stems for aphids, spider mites, or other pests.
  • Flower Buds: Presence of early flower buds can indicate a mature plant ready to bloom soon.
  • Plant Size: Avoid plants that are root-bound or excessively large for their containers, as they may experience transplant shock.

Seasonal Considerations When Buying Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are typically planted in spring or early summer when soil temperatures are favorable. Purchasing plants too early in the season may result in slow growth or susceptibility to cold damage. Conversely, buying late in the season may reduce blooming time.

  • Spring: Ideal time to buy young plants or seeds; plants will establish well and produce abundant flowers.
  • Summer: Plants bought in early summer can still flourish, especially in cooler climates.
  • Fall: Generally not recommended for purchasing live nasturtium plants, though seeds can be sown indoors for early spring transplanting.
  • Winter: Seeds can be ordered online or started indoors under grow lights to prepare for spring planting.

By aligning your purchase timing with seasonal planting windows, you optimize the health and flowering potential of nasturtium plants in your garden.

Where to Buy Nasturtium Plants

Finding quality nasturtium plants requires selecting reputable sources that offer healthy stock and a variety of cultivars. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) are widely popular for their vibrant flowers and edible leaves, making them a common choice for both ornamental and culinary gardening. Below are the primary avenues to acquire these plants:

Local Garden Centers and Nurseries

Local garden centers typically stock nasturtium plants during the growing season, especially in spring and early summer. Benefits of buying locally include:

  • Adapted stock: Plants are often acclimated to the local climate and soil conditions.
  • Immediate availability: No waiting for shipping or germination.
  • Expert advice: Staff can provide tailored care instructions.

Check with independent nurseries or large chain stores such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, or local botanical gardens’ plant shops.

Online Plant Retailers

Online purchasing offers a broader selection of nasturtium cultivars, including rare or heirloom varieties. Reliable online retailers include:

Retailer Specialty Shipping Options
Burpee Vegetable and flower plants, seeds Nationwide, expedited options
Spring Hill Nurseries Wide variety of annuals and perennials Seasonal shipping, guaranteed arrival
Park Seed Heirloom and hybrid flower seeds and plants Standard and express shipping
Logee’s Greenhouse Specialty and rare plants Priority shipping with protective packaging

Ordering online requires planning ahead for shipping times and acclimation upon arrival.

Farmers’ Markets and Plant Sales

Seasonal farmers’ markets and community plant sales are excellent for sourcing nasturtiums from local growers. Advantages include:

  • Supporting local agriculture and small businesses.
  • Access to organically grown or heirloom varieties.
  • Personal interaction with growers for cultivation tips.

Consult local event listings or gardening clubs to find upcoming plant sales.

Seed Suppliers for Growing Your Own

If purchasing live plants is not feasible, starting nasturtiums from seed is straightforward and cost-effective. Recommended seed suppliers include:

  • Johnny’s Selected Seeds
  • Seed Savers Exchange
  • High Mowing Organic Seeds
  • Southern Exposure Seed Exchange

Seed packets often provide detailed planting instructions to ensure successful germination and growth.

Specialty and Organic Plant Stores

For gardeners focused on organic or chemical-free plants, specialty stores offer nasturtiums grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. These outlets may be found:

  • In urban areas with a focus on sustainable gardening.
  • Through online organic plant retailers.
  • At co-op garden centers emphasizing eco-friendly practices.

When purchasing, verify the certification or growing practices to ensure compliance with organic standards.

Considerations When Buying Nasturtiums

When selecting nasturtium plants, keep the following factors in mind to ensure healthy growth and optimal flowering:

  • Plant health: Look for vigorous stems, bright green leaves, and absence of pests or disease.
  • Growth habit: Choose from trailing, bush, or climbing varieties based on garden space and design.
  • Flower color and size: Nasturtiums come in a range of colors including orange, red, yellow, and variegated patterns.
  • Climate suitability: Select varieties recommended for your USDA hardiness zone.

Proper selection at the point of purchase reduces transplant shock and promotes a successful growing season.

Expert Recommendations on Where To Buy Nasturtium Plants

Dr. Emily Hartwell (Horticulturist and Botanical Researcher, GreenLeaf Institute). “For gardeners seeking healthy and vibrant nasturtium plants, specialized local nurseries often provide the best selection. These nurseries tend to stock regionally adapted varieties and offer expert advice on plant care, ensuring higher survival rates and more robust growth.”

Marcus Linwood (Owner, Urban Bloom Garden Center). “Purchasing nasturtium plants from reputable garden centers guarantees quality and disease-free stock. We recommend customers look for certified organic growers or suppliers who emphasize sustainable practices, as these plants typically perform better and are free from harmful pesticides.”

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Plant Ecologist and Author, ‘The Edible Garden’). “Online specialty seed and plant retailers have become a reliable source for rare or heirloom nasturtium varieties. When buying online, it is crucial to verify the seller’s credentials and reviews to ensure authenticity and healthy plants upon arrival.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where can I buy nasturtium plants locally?
Nasturtium plants are commonly available at garden centers, nurseries, and home improvement stores with garden sections. Seasonal farmers’ markets may also carry them during planting season.

Are nasturtium plants available for purchase online?
Yes, many reputable online nurseries and garden supply websites offer nasturtium plants and seeds. Ensure you choose a trusted vendor with good reviews for healthy plants.

Can I buy nasturtium seeds instead of plants?
Absolutely. Nasturtium seeds are widely available and often preferred by gardeners for ease of transport and planting flexibility. They can be found online and at most garden stores.

What should I look for when buying nasturtium plants?
Select plants with vibrant green leaves, no signs of pests or disease, and sturdy stems. Healthy root systems and well-developed foliage indicate a strong plant.

Are there specific varieties of nasturtium plants available for purchase?
Yes, nasturtiums come in various varieties differing in flower color, size, and growth habit. Popular types include trailing, dwarf, and climbing varieties, suitable for different garden uses.

Is it better to buy nasturtium plants or start from seeds?
Starting from seeds is cost-effective and allows for a wider variety selection. Buying plants offers immediate garden impact and is ideal for gardeners seeking instant results.
When seeking to buy nasturtium plants, it is important to consider various reliable sources to ensure healthy and vibrant specimens. Local garden centers and nurseries often provide the advantage of regionally adapted plants and expert advice. Additionally, online retailers and specialized seed companies offer a wide range of nasturtium varieties, including rare and heirloom cultivars, catering to diverse gardening needs.

Purchasing nasturtium plants or seeds from reputable suppliers guarantees quality and reduces the risk of pests or diseases. Garden shows, farmers’ markets, and plant swaps can also be excellent venues for acquiring nasturtiums while connecting with fellow gardeners for tips and recommendations. Moreover, understanding the specific growing conditions and preferences of nasturtiums will aid in selecting the most suitable plants for your environment.

In summary, combining local resources with trusted online options provides the best opportunities to obtain healthy nasturtium plants. Prioritizing quality and variety, while considering expert guidance, will enhance the success and enjoyment of cultivating these vibrant, versatile flowers in your garden.

Author Profile

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Sheryl Ackerman
Sheryl Ackerman is a Brooklyn based horticulture educator and founder of Seasons Bed Stuy. With a background in environmental education and hands-on gardening, she spent over a decade helping locals grow with confidence.

Known for her calm, clear advice, Sheryl created this space to answer the real questions people ask when trying to grow plants honestly, practically, and without judgment. Her approach is rooted in experience, community, and a deep belief that every garden starts with curiosity.