Growing violets , specifically the Viola odorata variety , can be a delicious and rewarding experience . These sorcerous plants are comparatively wanton to grow , making them a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners . In this answer , I will provide you with a detailed overview of the process and offer some personal insights along the way .

1 . mood and Soil : Violets expand in cool , temperate climate and prefer partially shaded country . They can abide full refinement but may not bloom as extravagantly . When it comes to soil , violet are not too picky . They generally prefer well - draining soil that is rich in organic matter . If your soil is gruelling or clay - like , view amending it with compost or well - rotted manure to improve drainage .

2 . Planting : Violets can be acquire from come , divisions , or nursery - bought plants . If start out from seeds , you may sow in them forthwith in the garden in early spring or late summer . It ’s important to note that reddish blue seeds require a period of cold stratification to germinate successfully . This can be achieved by placing the seeds in a plastic bag with some dampish George Sand or vermiculite and refrigerating them for a few workweek before planting .

3 . Care and Maintenance : Violets are relatively low - maintenance plant , but they do need some care to thrive . Here are some key points to keep in mind :

– Watering : Violets favor evenly moist filth , so water them regularly during dry spells , specially in the summertime . However , be cautious not to overwater , as this can go to ascendant rot .

– Mulching : Applying a layer of organic mulch around the plant life can help oneself conserve moisture , suppress weeds , and maintain a coolheaded root zone . employ materials like rip up leaves , barque chips , or straw , insure the mulch is not pile up against the stems .

– Fertilizing : Violets generally do n’t need arduous feeding . Applying a balanced , slow - acquittance fertilizer in former spring or a diluted liquid fertilizer once a calendar month during the growing time of year should answer . Avoid over - fertilizing , as it can advance undue leafage outgrowth at the disbursal of flowers .

– Pruning : Regular deadheading ( polish off fade flowers ) will further continuous bloom . to boot , you may lop back any leggy or overgrown stems in early spring to maintain a compact and sizable plant .

4 . cuss and disease : While reddish blue are mostly resistant to pests and disease , they may on occasion encounter some issues . slug and snails can be a common job , especially in damp conditions . To deter these pests , you may use organic slug pellets or make strong-arm barriers like Cu tape around the plant . In terms of diseases , violets may occasionally suffer from powdery mould or leaf spot . To minimise these problems , ensure good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering .

5 . Personal Experience : I have had the pleasure of turn violet in my garden for several years now , and they have always been a pleasure to have around . Their delicate , fragrant peak are a plenty to lay eyes on , and their heart - form leaves add a jot of elegance to any garden bed or container . I have find that violet do best when engraft in a partly shaded area with well - drain soil . With regular watering , occasional alimentation , and a bit of deadheading , they have rewarded me with a continuous display of blooms throughout the cooler months .

Growing violet , specifically Viola odorata , is not in particular challenging . With the right condition and minimal care , these adorable plants can thrive and lend peach to your garden . Whether you ’re a beginner or an experient gardener , I boost you to give reddish blue a try and enjoy their enchanting sweetness and charming efflorescence .

Caroline Bates