Mistakes Everyone Makes When Trying To Grow Wild Violets

Wild violet (Viola sororia) is beautiful and resilient, but growing these flowers can be tricky if you're not careful. These charming little flowers can quickly turn from delightful to dominant in your garden, and many people make a few common mistakes when trying to nurture them. Let's explore what might be going wrong and how to fix it.

One of the biggest mistakes people make when growing wild violets is letting them take over. While their heart-shaped leaves and delicate purple blooms are lovely, they are incredibly hardy and can spread quickly. Wild violets are considered by some to be "weedy" because they reproduce through both seeds and underground runners. This means they can quickly colonize an area if not kept in check.

If you allow them too much freedom, they may out-compete other plants in your garden, especially in lawns where they can form thick, dense mats. This is fine if you're using violet as a ground cover alternative, but if you're not, you'll need to keep them pruned back regularly. Don't let their pretty appearance fool you into thinking they need minimal attention. Regular weeding, and even mowing, can help keep their growth manageable. For those growing wild violets in more formal gardens, a barrier or edging around your planting area can prevent them from spreading where they're not wanted.

Another mistake gardeners often make is not providing the right conditions for wild violets to thrive, or conversely, not choosing the conditions that limit their spreading. Wild violets thrive in shady or partially shady spots with moist, well-drained soil. However, gardeners sometimes forget how resilient these plants can be. Once established, they can survive in a wide range of soil types, including those that are dry. If you want your wild violets to thrive, keep the soil loose and well-watered — but don't overdo it. Too much water can lead to root rot.

Since wild violets do prefer moist soil, reducing your watering frequency can also help limit overgrowth. Additionally, avoid the overuse of fertilizers. Many people make this mistake, but it can quickly cause growth to get out of control. There are many reasons to let wild violets grow in your yard, and ultimately, they are a joy to grow when managed carefully. Keeping your lawn thick and healthy can prevent wild violets from taking over completely, while still allowing them to add a lovely pop of color to your garden.