Pansies are native to the temperate Central European climate and are therefore hardy. In the mild winters they bloom until spring. They roll up their flowers in frost and open them when it gets warmer again.
Normally, pansies do not mind frost and snow
Since the beginning of the 19th century, pansies with large flowers, earlier flowering times and more winter hardiness have been deliberately bred. Pansies and horned violets tolerate temperatures slightly below zero without any problems, as well as harder and longer periods of frost, especially if they are protected by a blanket of snow.
In very cold winters without snow there is a risk of freezing, and in full sun there is also a risk of dehydration. It is therefore advisable to cover the young plants sown in summer and autumn with straw, leaves or brushwood. Pansies cannot be overwintered in small containers such as balcony boxes, bowls or pots.
tips and tricks
The self-grown pansies are more robust and less sensitive to frost. On the other hand, the greenhouse goods offered in the spring are often sensitive to cold.