Pansies & Violas

At Westwood, we take great pride in growing our pansies and violas right here in Northwest Arkansas, providing them with the utmost care from seed to bloom. Our team tends to these plants daily, ensuring they receive the perfect amount of water, nutrients, and attention needed to develop into robust, vibrant flowers. By starting our growing process in late summer, we cultivate multiple crops throughout the fall and spring, guaranteeing a continuous supply of fresh, healthy pansies and violas for your garden.

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The Difference Between Pansies and Violas

A little known fact - Pansies were actually cultivated from violas, meaning they are essentially the "children" of violas, even though violas are smaller. While pansies and violas are closely related and often used interchangeably in gardens, there are a few key differences that set them apart:

1. Flower Size and Shape:

• Pansies: Known for their larger blooms, pansies typically have flowers that range from 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Their distinct, "face-like" pattern often features bold, contrasting colors.
• Violas: Violas have smaller blooms, usually around 1 to 1.5 inches across. Though their flowers are more petite, they produce an abundance of blooms, creating a dense, colorful display.

2. Blooming Season:

• Pansies: Pansies are well-suited for cooler weather and tend to bloom in both the fall and spring. They can withstand light frosts, but extreme cold can cause them to die back.
• Violas: Violas are even more cold-tolerant than pansies, often blooming continuously through winter in milder climates. Their ability to withstand harsher conditions makes them an excellent choice for prolonged color in your garden.

3. Growth Habit:

• Pansies: Pansies have a more upright growth habit, making them ideal for use as bedding plants or in container displays where their larger flowers can stand out.
• Violas: Violas tend to have a more spreading or trailing growth habit, making them perfect for borders, ground covers, or filling in gaps between other plants in mixed containers.

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How to Care for Your Pansies and Violas

Pansies and violas are quite tough, but still need some care to grow big and strong. When planting in the ground, choose a well-drained location that receives full to partial sun. These flowers prefer cool weather and need regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. It's important to check the soil regularly, especially in containers, as it can dry out quickly. A layer of mulch can help retain moisture and protect the roots during colder temperatures.

Fertilizing your pansies and violas every few weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer will encourage continuous blooming. Be sure to deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote new blooms and keep the plants looking tidy. With proper care, your pansies and violas will thrive, providing your garden with color during the cooler months.

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How to Use Pansies and Violas in Your Garden or Home

Pansies and violas are versatile, cool-weather flowers that can be used in various ways to brighten up your garden, patio, or home. They look especially good as a border plant, as they stay relatively compact but mound up with growth. They can also be used in seasonal mixed pots for Fall, though they may not come back in spring after a deep freeze.

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