The Viola tricolor, commonly known as Pansy, is one of the world’s most difficult flowers to dislike. Essentially a cold-weather flower, it is quite hardy, and when mulched with straw or hay, it is able to withstand temperatures in the teens. If planted in regions where only light frosts occur, pansies will produce cut flowers all winter long. Its pretty little flowers are usually three-toned, with yellow, white, and purple blossoms. They grow anyplace, in full sun to full shade, wherever there is cool, moist soil and nutritious mulch.
The tri-color flower is best cultivated from seed every year because older flowers gradually diminish the number of blossoms they put forth. Sow seeds in early spring for fall bloom, or in late fall for spring and summer flowering. Seeds may also be planted indoors in mid-winter to produce spring flowers. Seeds should be placed in rows under a light covering of soil. Transplant seedlings when they can be safely handled, making sure to provide a rich mulch of composted manure and organic humus. New plants can be rooted from cuttings in late summer or early fall. During the summer, pansies can be harvested by cutting the plant in half, taking leaves and stems along with the flowers. This stimulates fresh growth and new blossoms.