How to Grow Sweet Violet
Also known as garden violet or English violet, sweet violet, (Viola odorata), is a hardy perennial that blooms in early spring, often following closely behind crocus and other spring bulbs. This sweet-smelling ground cover grows to heights of 4 to 8 inches, displaying dark green, heart-shaped leaves. Flowers are in shades of pink, rose, purple and white and double or single forms, depending on the variety. Sweet violet is suitable for planting in U.S. Department of Agriculture growing zones 5 through 9. It often blooms throughout the winter in zones 7 and above.
Plant sweet violet in moist, rich soil. If the soil is poor, improve it by digging 2 to 3 inches of compost or manure into the top 6 to 8 inches of soil. Sweet violet tolerates full sunlight, especially in areas with cool summers. Otherwise, the plant prefers an area that is protected from hot afternoon sunlight.
Water the plant as needed to keep the soil moist, as sweet violet is a woodland plant that prefers damp soil. Don't water excessively, as the plant can rot in soggy soil. Never allow the soil to become bone dry.
Fertilize sweet violets in spring and fall, which stimulates growth and encourages blooms. Use an all-purpose garden fertilizer applied according to package directions. Always fertilize the soil and not the plant, and always water immediately following fertilization.
Protect the plant from slugs, which chew holes in the leaves and flowers. To prevent slugs, keep the area around the plant free of leaves and other plant debris where slugs like to hide. An infestation of slugs may require slug bait, which is available in both chemical and nontoxic varieties. Apply the bait regularly, following label recommendations.
Gather bouquets from sweet violet throughout the blooming season. Removing blooms before they wilt prevents the plant from going to seed prematurely. You can also shear the plants with clippers or pruners when the plants begin to fade in early to midsummer.
Spread 1 to 2 inches of mulch such as bark chips or pine needles around the plant to keep the soil evenly moist and prevent growth of weeds. Apply fresh mulch in autumn to insulate the roots during the winter. Never use more than 3 inches of mulch, as too much mulch is a convenient hiding place for slugs.
M.H. Dyer began her writing career as a staff writer at a community newspaper and is now a full-time commercial writer. She writes about a variety of topics, with a focus on sustainable, pesticide- and herbicide-free gardening. She is an Oregon State University Master Gardener and Master Naturalist and holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative nonfiction writing.