Carol Klein’s Top Viola Varieties
Carol Klein, a renowned British gardener, shares her favorite viola varieties that are easy to grow and bloom for months on end. Violas are smaller and more delicate than pansies, with a range of colors and often a sweet fragrance. They are perfect for adding a splash of color to pots, hanging baskets, and borders in both sunny and shaded areas.
Growing Violas
Violas thrive in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. They prefer partial shade during the summer and don’t tolerate hot conditions well. Overwatering can lead to aphid infestations, so be sure to water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Propagation
Violas can be propagated by dividing clumps, taking cuttings, layering, or in some cases, from seed. Dividing clumps is the quickest way to get more violas and can be done in spring or fall.
Viola Varieties
Viola ‘Belmont Blue’
This versatile and long-flowering viola produces masses of dainty blooms that elegantly fade to an array of lilacs and pale blues. It is perfect for adding a touch of color to borders, containers, or hanging baskets.
Viola ‘Jackanapes’
Viola ‘Jackanapes’ is a small-flowered cultivar with distinctive coloring. It has two maroon back petals and bright-yellow lower petals with ‘whiskers.’ This viola blooms from April to October and grows to a height of 15cm and a spread of 25cm.
Viola ‘Rebecca’
Viola ‘Rebecca’ is a standout variety with pale flowers that have a deep-purple picotee edge. It is neat, compact, and prolific, making it ideal for pots where its fragrant flowers can be best appreciated.
Viola ‘Dawn’
‘Dawn’ has abundant creamy-yellow flowers that add a bright splash of color to a lightly shaded spot. Plant it in containers or baskets to enjoy its sweet fragrance up close.
Viola ‘Etain’
A delightful ‘old-fashioned’ viola, ‘Etain’ has neat rounded petals of a soft creamy-yellow outlined in soft blue. It is very floriferous and highly scented, making it a favorite for fragrance gardens.
Viola tricolor ‘Freckles’
This North American species has made itself at home in Europe, where it self-seeds freely. There are purple and white forms, but ‘Freckles’ combines the two, its white petals splashed with purple. Viola ‘Freckles’ blooms from March to June and grows to a height of 15cm and a spread of 20cm.
Viola Care
To keep your violas healthy and blooming their best, follow these care tips:
- Water regularly, especially during hot weather.
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
- Divide clumps every few years to prevent overcrowding.
- Watch for pests like aphids and treat them promptly.
With proper care, violas will provide you with months of beautiful blooms and a touch of fragrance to your garden.
