How To Start Growing Pansies
Pansies aren’t picky, and they’ll bloom from April to October if your climate is right. Of course, you can plant these in lower growing zones, but their bloom life is often short-lived, ideal around the spring or fall. Pansies will tolerate many kinds of soil conditions, but they really thrive in loose soil with a slight acidity. I recommend around 6.0 to 6.2. Though pansies will bloom in conditions of full sun, they’ll bloom for longer periods of time if you plant them in an area of your yard with partial shade. Pansies also don’t like much heat, so planting them in a shadier section of your yard will also keep them looking beautiful in the summer heat. However, it’s no secret that pansies like cold weather, so I would suggest getting them in the ground ASAP in the Spring so you can enjoy them for weeks before the summer heat causes wilt.
How Often Should I Water and Fertilize?
Because pansies bloom over such an expansive period of time, regular fertilization is a must. However, fertilization that is too frequent can cause plants to look “leggy,” and no one wants that! I’ve found it best to fertilize my pansies every four to five weeks during the blooming period. I use a foliar fertilization method, and I love this Miracle-Gro spray. As far as watering is concerned, typically, I water every 2-3 days, or as the soil feels dry. During hotter spells, feel free to water them more frequently to help keep them cool.
What Should I Plant Pansies With?
I like to pair my pansies with spring-time favorites like daffodils and tulips. The pansies even do a great job of “hiding” the dying foliage when the tulips stop blooming. Additionally, I think they look great with things like Ornamental Kale and even garden herbs. These plants also work great for edging, and in small spaces where visual interest is needed.
Pansy Pest Problems?
Just because they’re hardy doesn’t mean they’re completely pest-proof. Though pansies are pretty resistant to other garden pests, they can struggle with snails and aphids during the blooming season. To get rid of aphids, spray plants with mild dish soap and water. For snails, use a slug bait and space out plants if need be.
Leave a Reply