256 GARDENING FOR THE SOUTH. 



NASTURTIUM, or INDIAN CRESS. 



(Tropcsolum majus and T. minus.) 



There are two species, the Large Nasturtium (T. majus) 

 and the small Nasturtium (T. minus) both from Peru, 

 where they are perennials, but are here treated as annuals. 

 The large species was introduced into England in 1681. 

 The stalks are long and trailing; the leaves have their 

 petioles fixed at the centre. Flowers helmet-shaped, 

 of a rich, brilliant orange, and continue from their first 

 appearance all summer ; and if not so common would be 

 thought very beautiful. The small sort is preferable for 

 the garden, being productive and needing no support. 



Culture. Nasturtiums flourish in a moist soil, but do 

 best in a good, fresh loam. If the soil is too rich, the plants 

 are luxuriant, but do not bear so abundantly, and the fruit 

 is of inferior flavor. Give them an open situation. Sow 

 in spring when the ground gets warm ; put the seeds an 

 inch deep and four inches apart, covering them three-fourths 

 of an inch. The seed must be of the preceding year's 

 growth. They may be sown by the side of a fence or 

 trellis. If more than one row is sown, they should be at 

 least four feet apart. Thin the plants, when they are well 

 up, to a foot in the drill. Hoe the ground well, and keep 

 down the weeds. If sown in the open ground, support 

 them as you would peas with lattice or brush. Give the 

 plants a little assistance in fastening themselves to the 

 trellis. Water in dry weather. Gather the fruit when 

 full grown, but while still fresh and green. 



For Seed. Let some of the berries mature, gather them 

 as they ripen, spread them to dry and harden, and store 

 in paper bags. 



Use. The flowers and young leaves are used in salads, 

 and have a warm taste like water cress. The flowers are 

 used in garnishing dishes. The fruit, gathered green and 

 pickled, forms an excellent substitute for capers. 



