Pansy Viola 'Carousel'

Water

Pansies, including the Viola 'Carousel', should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. During hotter periods, pansies typically require watering once every few days, depending on the climate and soil drainage—more frequent watering for containers. In cooler weather, the watering frequency can be reduced. A good method is to water deeply, applying about 1 gallon of water per square foot of soil, once or twice a week. Ensure water penetrates the top 6 inches of soil, reaching the root zone.

Light

Pansies thrive in areas with full to partial sunlight. The ideal spot for a Viola 'Carousel' is a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. However, in very hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the flowers from intense heat.

Temperature

Pansies prefer cooler temperatures and will perform best when daytime temperatures are between 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive light frosts and brief periods of cold as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit but should be protected from prolonged freezing temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growing Viola 'Carousel' is cool to moderate climates without extreme heat or sustained freezing.

Pruning

Pansies including the Viola 'Carousel', should be deadheaded regularly to encourage more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance. Prune away any faded or dead flowers to prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. The best time for pruning pansies is late evening or early morning when temperatures are cooler.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Pansies like well-draining soil with a mix of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite. The pH for Viola 'Carousel' should be between 5.5 and 6.2 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Pansies should be repotted annually. Repot Viola 'Carousel' in the spring before the growing season to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Pansies prefer average humidity levels; Viola 'Carousel' thrives in conditions between 40% to 60% humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial sun to full shade; ensure soil drainage.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Viola 'Carousel', commonly known as Pansy, begins with seed germination, which occurs in a cool and moist environment, usually taking place in late winter to spring. Once sprouted, the seedlings grow into juvenile plants with characteristic heart-shaped leaves and begin to establish a root system. As the plants mature, they produce a profusion of colorful flowers, often in cooler spring or fall months, that can come in various patterns and hues, including the signature "face-like" markings. Flowering is followed by the development of seed pods, which, when mature, split open to disperse seeds for the next generation. The Pansy is typically a biennial plant, which means it completes its life cycle in two years, but it is often grown as an annual in gardens. In its second year, after re-emerging from dormancy if it was grown in a region with cold winters, the plant will bloom again before completing its life cycle and dying.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Viola 'Carousel', commonly known as a type of pansy, can be propagated through seed sowing. The best time for this is typically in late winter to early spring, as this allows for the establishment of seedlings that will bloom in the cooler months. To propagate pansies from seed, first, select a well-draining soil mix and plant the seeds approximately 1/8 inch deep. The seeds need darkness to germinate, so they should be covered lightly with soil. It's crucial to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks at a temperature range of 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (about 18 to 24°C). Once seedlings have a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be thinned out or transplanted to give them enough space to grow healthy and robust.