Viola - this name is given to specimens belonging to the violet family of plants. They surprise with their long flowering period, flower colors, scent, medicinal properties and more. But are violets hardy in this country or do they need protection from frost?

Protect less hardy violets like pansies from the cold with a layer of mulch

Most are hardy

Most violets that exist in the world are hardy. Some hybrid forms can even easily cope with temperatures down to -15 °C. Only the violets, which come from exotic regions, do not survive the winter in this country unscathed.

Whether long-lasting snow or permafrost - the commercially available violets such as sweet violet and horned violet usually do not need winter protection. Their roots survive in the soil. Many species even have evergreen to evergreen leaves that can be seen throughout the winter.

Pansies are the sensitive ones

In addition to other exotic violets, the pansy (also a type of violet) is considered the sensitive one. It tolerates severe frost less well. Therefore, if you have planted this plant outdoors, it is better to protect it over the winter.

Protect sensitive violets in winter

Sensitive violets such as pansies can be protected outdoors from autumn to spring in the form of the following insulating/warming materials:

  • brushwood
  • Fir and spruce branches
  • leaves
  • moss
  • fleece

The protective layer should already be placed over the sensitive plants before the first frost sets in in autumn. Further measures are unnecessary. From April/May the winter protection can be removed again.

Some sensitive specimens that have been planted in the garden can and should be overwintered at home as a precaution. Bright and moderately warm to cool places are best suited there. Before that, they are dug up and then placed in a pot. Don't forget to water!

Violet seeds need the winter to germinate

Did you know? If you want to sow violets, you shouldn't do it in a warm living room. Violet seeds are cold germs. They need the cold in winter to be stimulated to germinate. In the spring they start to sprout and bloom in the first year or two.

tips and tricks

Many types of violets are so unfazed by the cold that they even bloom in winter. These include, for example, the horned violets.

Category:

Indoor plants