How to grow... Viola
Rocket Growing Guides
Violas are normally grown as an annual, but they will actually come back if the winter is reasonably mild. If you’re growing them in a sheltered, mild spot that is unlikely to get frosts or harsh weather, then you could leave them in the ground overwinter and see how they do. If your plot gets quite frosty, then you may as well pull them up at the end of the season.
Viola is a good at attracting bees, making it an excellent addition to the veg patch, but no real companion planting qualities that we are aware of.
- Viola Growing Guide
How to Plant Violas
- These can be grown in pots, borders, hanging baskets and beds
- Give them plenty of compost when planting to keep them well nourished
- Plant them in full sun or partial shade
- Plant 20cm apart
How to Grow Violas
- Keep them watered during dry spells, other than that they are fairly self-sufficient
- Watch out for slugs and snails – they will happily eat the flowers
- Deadhead often to keep them flowering for longer
How to Harvest Violas
- Harvest flowers in the morning (when they are just opening, rather than in the evening when they are closing again)
- Use flowers to decorate cakes or sprinkle on salads.
Are Violas good for Companion Planting?
- Viola is a good at attracting bees, making it an excellent addition to the veg patch, but no real companion planting qualities that we are aware of.