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Dog friendlyHow to plant, grow and care for Violas and Pansies
Their vivid colours and markings, reminiscent of happy faces, are perfect for brightening up pots and borders.
Do violas and pansies like sun or shade?
Violas perform well in cool conditions as they are a woodland plant which makes them shade tolerant but most do not like total shade. Pansies can grow in partial shade but more sun will produce larger flowers.
Do they need a lot of water?
The soil should remain slightly moist and not be allowed to dry out. If they are positioned near a house they could be in a rain shadow so keep a close eye on them, even in autumn and winter!
What are the preferred soil conditions?
Pansies and violas are undemanding with a broad tolerance to most soil types as long as it is moist, but free-draining.
Want to keep them flowering?
Deadheading is key to prolonging the flowering period as this encourages the plants to put their energy into growing flowers rather than seeds. Violas and pansies happily flower through autumn to spring, sometimes flowering reduces during January but they quickly start again as the days get longer.
What to grow with violas and pansies?
They combine well with spring bulbs and foliage plants in containers.
Do your pansies look a bit wilted in the winter?
Don't make the mistake of throwing them away! Occasionally when there is a frost they may resemble salad that has touched the back of the fridge. As the day warms up they will defrost and perk up again.
Did you know that pansy and viola flowers are edible?
They are often used in salads and desserts, if you eat them just make sure they are grown organically.
We look forward to seeing you gardening,
Matthew, Charlotte and all the Team
