Common Blue Violet

What you'll need:

Common Blue Violet seeds or small starter plants (if available)

A pot, container, or a shaded to partially sunny area in your garden

Regular garden soil that holds moisture well (you can mix in some compost for extra nutrients)

A watering can or spray bottle for gentle watering

When to start:

The best time to plant Common Blue Violets is either in early spring or fall. These plants thrive in cooler temperatures and don’t like the intense heat of summer.

Choosing a spot:

Common Blue Violets love shade or partial sun. If you’re planting outside, pick a spot under a tree or near a building where they won’t get too much direct sunlight. Indoors, place them near a window with filtered light or morning sun.

Tip: If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider starting indoors or in a greenhouse before moving them outside.

If you have seeds:

1. Fill a small pot or seed tray with moist soil.
2. Sprinkle the tiny violet seeds on top of the soil—don’t bury them too deep; just lightly press them into the surface.
3. Mist the soil gently with water to keep it damp but not soggy.
4. Cover the pot with plastic wrap or a clear lid to create a mini-greenhouse effect.
5. Place the pot in a cool, shaded area. Seeds usually sprout within 2-3 weeks.

If you have small plants:

1. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the plant.
2. Gently place the violet plant into the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
3. Fill in around the plant with soil, patting it down lightly.
4. Water thoroughly after planting.

Spacing tip:
If planting outdoors, space the violets about 6-8 inches apart to allow room for spreading.

Watering:

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
• In hot weather, you may need to water more frequently.

Feeding your violets:

• Feed the plants once a month with a light, all-purpose fertilizer or something made for flowering plants.
• Don’t over-fertilize—violet roots are sensitive, and too much can harm them.

Sunlight needs:

• Common Blue Violets prefer shade or dappled sunlight. Too much direct sun can scorch their leaves.
• If planted in full sun, make sure the soil stays consistently moist.

Managing growth:

• These violets can spread! If they start to take over an area, gently pull out any unwanted plants.
• You can also divide the plants every couple of years by digging them up and replanting smaller sections.

Tip: Deadhead (remove spent flowers) regularly to encourage more blooms.

When to enjoy your violets:

• While Common Blue Violets are mostly grown for their beauty, their flowers and leaves are edible!
• The flowers are at their best when they’re fully open and vibrant blue or purple.
• Leaves can be picked anytime, though younger ones are tastier.

How to harvest:

• Simply pinch or snip off the flowers and leaves.
• Rinse them gently under cool water before using them in salads, teas, or as garnishes.

Storage:

• Fresh violets can be stored in the fridge for a few days. Place them in a container lined with a damp paper towel to keep them fresh.
• You can also dry the flowers for decorative purposes or to use in herbal teas.

Fun fact: The flowers have a mild, sweet flavor and look beautiful sprinkled on cakes or desserts!

Q: My violets aren’t blooming, what’s wrong?

A: Lack of blooms could be due to insufficient light or too much fertilizer. Try moving them to a brighter (but still shaded) spot and reduce feeding.

Q: Why do my violet leaves look yellow?

A: Yellow leaves often mean overwatering or poor drainage. Make sure the soil isn’t staying too wet. Allow the top layer to dry out between waterings.

Q: Can I grow Common Blue Violets indoors?

A: Yes! They can thrive indoors if given bright, indirect light and kept away from direct heat sources like radiators or vents.

Q: Are these violets invasive?

A: They can spread quickly, especially in ideal conditions. If they start taking over, simply dig up the extra plants or contain them in pots.

Q: How do I stop pests from eating my violets?

A: Slugs and snails love violets! Place crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth around the base of the plants to deter them naturally.