Winter Pansies

As we head into the colder months, flower beds can often start to look a little stark. Luckily, winter flowering pansies are a simple and reliable way to brighten up your garden on those darker days.
Here’s everything you need to know about winter pansies, including the best time to plant them, how long they last, how often you need to water them and everything in-between.

When should you plant winter pansies?
Ideally, plant your pansy seeds in borders or pots during September and early October – this will give them a better chance to grow sturdy roots and flowers. The lingering warmth in the soil during this pre-winter period helps to support faster growth and will prepare your pansies for producing more flowers over winter.

Is October to November too late to plant winter pansies?
A hardy species, winter pansies will flower for the majority of the winter season and into spring even when planted in late October or November.
Though they prefer sun, pansies also grow well in partial shade meaning that even in these darker months they will yield a display. However, it is worth noting that pansies planted later on are less likely to survive harsh winter weather because they have had less time to develop robust roots.

Tips on caring for winter pansies

1. To lengthen the blooming period of your pansies, pinch out flower heads that have finished blooming to ensure that nutrients aren't wasted. These removed heads will grow new buds, producing more flowers that will last for a longer period.
2. Be sure to fertilize your pansies after planting, during late autumn and again in spring.
3. Pansies grow better in the sunshine so when planting them always ensure that they’re facing the sun to help them thrive.