Bolivian Nasturtium
You may plant your tuber when you receive it, but keep the soil almost completely dry until September. Or you may store it in a paper bag in a cool spot until autumn. If you see a thread-like shoot emerge in autumn, it is time to plant it (the shoot is the foliage, not the root). A pot about 5-6 inches (12-15 cm) is a good size for 1 tuber. For soil, use a very well-draining mix. A typical mix is 3 parts quality potting soil to 2 parts perlite or coarse horticultural sand. Don't add lime to the mix. Plant it so the top of the tuber is 2 inches (5 cm) deep. If you're unsure which end of tuber is the top, plant it sideways and it will straighten itself. In September, water the pot just enough so the soil is lightly moist throughout (not saturated). Don't let it get any wetter until the leaves appear. Once it sprouts, you may increase the watering. Give it dappled sun or weak sun, with some protection from strong sun. As it grows bigger you can increase the light intensity. 2 weeks after the first shoot appears, feed with a general-purpose fertilizer that contains micronutrients, and repeat once more 2 months later. Climate -- It prefers temperatures below 80 degrees (27°C) with nights that are cool and frost-free. It might not thrive if temperatures regularly get above 80 degrees from fall through spring, especially if nights are warm (above 64° / 18°C). It is said to be able to handle a light, brief frost, but i recommend protecting it from freezing temperatures. It prefers part sun, with protection from strong sun in the spring. Over about 40% humidity is best. Support -- Give the shoots a few thin, vertical supports to twine themselves around, such as a tomato cage or trellis about 3-4 feet (1-1.2 meter) tall, although you can use a shorter support while it's young. Dormancy -- The tubers normally go dormant in spring or summer, but it may happen at other times if growing it indoors under lights. If the leaves turn yellow or brown, the tuber may be preparing for dormancy, so reduce the watering to prevent rot. Once the shoots die back, you may dig up the tuber if you wish and repot it. If you have questions, feel free to contact me. Enjoy your plant! - Jeff Strange Wonderful Things
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