This June, I’m seizing my last chance of the season to sow nasturtium seeds, and I’m doing it in an eco-friendly way! My biodegradable, peat-free wood pulp pots are perfect for the planet and minimise root disturbance when I plant them out later. There’s something incredibly satisfying about nurturing these cheerful annuals from tiny seeds, knowing they’ll soon erupt in a vibrant splash of colour across my garden, even with this slightly later start.

I’ve chosen nasturtiums for their brilliant ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Starting them undercover in my grow house gives them a crucial head start, shielding them from June’s often unpredictable weather.

My sowing process is straightforward: I fill the pots with a mix of mostly coir compost and a little organic compost – nasturtiums actually prefer poorer soil conditions. I sow two seeds about 1 cm deep in each pot. After a gentle watering, the consistent warmth and humidity inside the grow house usually encourage quick germination. Once the little shoots emerge, I ensure they get plenty of light to grow strong and healthy.

I plan to let my nasturtiums flourish in the grow house until they’re robust enough for the outdoors. When conditions are just right, I’ll plant them, pot and all, directly into my garden or larger containers. This method prevents any root disturbance, ensuring they continue to thrive. I can’t wait to see their cheerful blossoms later this summer!