Pansy and Viola
Genus:  Viola   Species:  tricolor

The name pansy is from the French word pensie, meaning thought or remembrance. The pansy is a delicate looking flower often with a "face". The viola family includes both pansies and violets, the former most loved for their perky faces and the latter for their pretty perfume.

Some pansies have a delicate perfume-like aroma. Once you have smelled and identified the pansy scent, it is unforgettable. Pansies seem to exude more fragrance at early morning and dusk. The yellow or blue pansy flowers seem to have the strongest scent.

• Pansies seldom have problems with insects and disease. If insect or disease problems occur, treat early with organic or chemical insect repellents and fungicide.
• If pansies fail to thrive it is often because neither nature nor the gardener provided enough water.
• Mulching around the pansies with 2 inches of organic material will help conserve moisture, and reduce weed growth.
• Water the soil (not the plant leaves) deeply.

Site Preparation:
Pansies thrive in cool, rich, moist, well-drained soil. They prefer partial shade, but will tolerate full sun where summers are cool. Add plenty of compost, or other organic matter, to the soil prior to planting to help retain moisture, and prevent plants from wilting during the heat of the day.

How to Plant:
Pansies may be grown from seeds or seedlings. Mature plants are also widely available in cell-packs from home centers, greenhouses and nurseries. If growing from seed, sow indoors 1/4 inch deep, 10-12 weeks before planting out. Seeds will germinate in 10-14 days. Transplant when the spring temperatures are still cool and a light frost is possible. Set transplants at six-inch intervals and provide deep, weekly waterings to promote strong growth and good flowering. Remove spent flowers on a regular basis to extend the blooming period and apply organic fertilizer several times during the growing season.

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