The Viola odorata is a flowering plant native to many European countries and Asia.
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There are over 500 different species in the Viola genus. The most well-known varieties include pansies, Johnny ump-ups, and violets. Because there are so many types of violas and their fast growth rate, they are popular in outside gardens and window boxes. They are so diverse that some are annuals while others are perennials.
Growing Sweet Violets Violas:
Violas tend to like the cooler seasons, so many like planting them for the spring and fall seasons. They grow best before the hot summer months begin and fall before the cold weather hits. In warmer zones, they can survive until the first frost.
Here are some tips from The Spruce to help plant and care for your violas.
- If purchasing growing plants, choose plants that have a lot of buds.
- They should be spaced 6-8 inches apart.
- They should begin blooming in 12-14 weeks if planted from seed.
- They are versatile and can be planted in places around your yard that get sun and afternoon shade.
Light:
While violas like the full sun, they don’t like hot temperatures. If planted in the summer, they need to be planted in areas that get partial afternoon shade.
Soil:
Violas like moist soil, like peat-based soil, are slightly acidic. Planting them in the proper soil is crucial to the growth of the viola and all its other strains.
Water:
Gardeners will need to water their violas regularly, allowing the soil to become dry between watering. While they can endure some dry spells, they will thrive and flower when they are watered regularly.
Insects and Other Issues:
Like all plants, the sweet violet has some enemies. Slugs, snails, and red spider mites can cause damage to the plant. It is also susceptible to diseases like pansy leaf spots and powdery mildew.
Showcasing Your Sweet Violets:
There are many uses for violets, as they are one of the most versatile plants you can find.
Many people use violas as an edging to a path or garden border. They are also used in earthy settings bringing a mound of color to rock wall gardens. They go well with other flowers such as snapdragons, dianthus, or bright spring bulbs.
Many add trailing varieties to hanging plant arrangements, garden beds, and window boxes.
Health Benefits of Sweet Violet- Viola Odorata:
Health Benefits Times states that there are many health benefits of violas because both their flowers and leaves are edible:
- Reduces blood pressure and acts as a diuretic
- Treat cancer due to antioxidant properties
- Aids digestion
- Reduces inflammation due to anti-inflammatory properties
- Reduces coughing by acting as an expectorant
- Fever reducer by providing a cooling effect
- Reduces cysts and is used as a preventive measure
- Treats skin issues by using the leaves as a compress