Pansies are soft-stemmed perennials that are an instant hit in any garden. Their flat-faced flowers are attractive with soft, layered petals in rich shades of purple, white, yellow, and red. Most flowers have attractive patterns that give each flower a bold, recognizable look. These hardy plants grow as perennials in USDA zones 4 through 9, but gardeners should always check the cultivar they choose before planting, as varieties can vary.
Pansies, commonly called violas, are easy to care for, yet regular care helps promote full bloom and healthy growth. Many varieties thrive in partial sun or shade, making them ideal for areas with limited light that still need bright color and charm. Some pansies require a few hours of direct sunlight each day, so it’s important to check each variety’s requirements before choosing a planting location. This flowering plant typically reaches 6 to 12 inches in both height and spread.
What is the Meaning of the Pansies Flower?
The meaning of the pansy flower is strongly linked to deep thought, memory, and affection. People often see it as a gentle way of saying, “You’re on my mind.”
The word “pansy” comes from the French word pansée, which means “thought.” This origin fits perfectly, as for centuries people have given the gift of pansies to quietly show care and attention to someone special.
In flower symbolism, pansies mean:
- Thoughtful feelings
- Remembering someone close
- Love, both romantic and friendly
- A gentle compliment
So, when you want to gift flowers that have feelings and meaning, pansies send a quiet, heartfelt message that feels personal and real.
Check Also: How To Grow And Care For A Poinsettia Plant? Tips And History For Poinsettia
Are pansies Annuals or Perennials?
Many gardeners grow pansies (and other violas) as annuals, but these plants are actually hardy perennials in USDA zones 3-8. During the hot summer months, they often become tall and weak. Farmers have not had much luck developing heat-tolerant pansies that can withstand truly high temperatures.
Pansies tolerate cold weather very well. They can survive frost and often recover even after temperatures drop into the single digits. While cold weather can damage the flowers, the plants usually recover and bloom again later. This quality makes pansies an excellent choice for adding bright color to fall and early winter.
How to Plant Pansies in a Flower Pot: 8 Steps
1. Plant your pansies in the fall.
Plant your pansies in the fall.
This time strengthens the roots before the cold weather sets in.
I usually plant my pansies in October because I garden in zone 7.
2. Water your pansies before planting.
Never plant pansies in dry soil. Always water them first so they can withstand transplant shock.
You can water your pansies a few hours before planting or even the day before.
Make sure the soil and roots are moist before planting.
Dry roots are stressful for delicate pansy plants.
Well-watered pansies will adjust better during transplanting.
3. Keep the soil 1-2” below the edge of the container.
Fill the container with soil, stopping about 1-2 inches below the rim. This space helps retain water and prevents the soil from settling when it rains or when watering.
Always choose a good quality potting mix to avoid soil compaction.
That 1-inch space at the top acts as a water basin.
It also prevents the soil from washing away when watering or during rain.
Sometimes I start with 2 inches and finish with about 1 inch after planting is complete.
4. Feed the soil with a balanced fertilizer.
Mix a balanced fertilizer into the potting soil to support root growth before winter sets in.
10-10-10 fertilizer works well – follow the instructions on the package.
I have also used Bulbtone, which focuses more on strong root growth.
Applying the fertilizer evenly to the soil will help it mix in. Use gloves to do this.
5. Remove the pansies from their nursery pots.
Gently press down on the sides of each pansy to remove the container, and loosen the plant a little.
Hold the pot, press down on all sides, and carefully turn it upside down.
Gently pull the base of the pansy so that it comes out of the container.
6. Carefully separate the roots of the pansy.
Gently loosen the roots with your hands before planting. This helps the roots grow outward into the new soil.
You may see the roots curling at the bottom of the plant.
Carefully separate those roots with your fingers.
This step encourages healthy growth rather than allowing the roots to grow in a circular pattern.
7. Space the pansies 1″–8″ apart.
I usually plant pansies about 1 inch apart in winter containers. If you want to save money, space them up to 8 inches apart. They keep it that way. The reason That it will spread over time.
Dig a hole using a trowel or your gloved hand.
Plant the pansies level with the surrounding soil.
Pack the soil gently and firmly around the plants.
Continue planting in the same manner for the rest of the way.
Make sure the soil level from the nursery pot matches the soil level in the new container.
Do not bury the original soil from the nursery pot.
Choose a spacing of 1 to 8 inches, depending on your budget.
Closer spacing provides faster, fuller color.
In containers, I usually space them 1-2 inches apart.
8. Water the pansies well after planting.
Water your pansies well after planting so they are properly established.
They go through several processes – stretching, loosening the roots, and new fertilizer.
Deep watering helps them adjust to the new soil You will get
Water until you see water running out of the drainage holes.
Healthy watering produces beautiful results.
If the soil sinks after watering, add a little more potting mix on top.
Pansies rank as my favorite winter flower. For more ideas for container flowers for winter, check out my top picks here.
How to Care for Pansies
To enjoy healthy, colorful pansies and violas for a long time, use these simple watering and care tips:
Plant in full sun:
Pansies and violas grow best in full sun. Choose a location that gets at least 6 or more hours of sunlight per day for strong growth and bright flowers.
Water regularly:
After planting, keep the soil evenly moist. Water your pansies and violas every two to three days if there is little rain. The roots of the young plants are shallow, so regular watering will help the roots spread into the surrounding soil.
Avoid overwatering:
If you see waterlogging on the surface of the soil, stop watering and let the soil dry out a bit. Once the plants are established, water them about twice a week to keep them healthy, even during the winter.
Winter Watering:
Many gardeners skip watering in the winter, especially when the irrigation system is turned off or the soil appears frozen. However, pansies and violas need moisture during the cold months. Dry roots can be damaged by freezing, especially in containers, which dry out more quickly than in garden beds.
Freeze Protection:
Water your plants deeply before a hard frost. Moist soil helps protect the roots by retaining heat and reducing the risk of frost damage during extreme temperatures.
Mulch:
To survive the winter, add a layer of mulch around your pansies and violas. You can use pine bark, cedar mulch, or cottonseed hulls. Spread the mulch around each plant and press it down lightly to eliminate large air gaps.
Feeding:
Pansies and violas continue to grow throughout the winter, so they need extra nutrition. Add a slow-release fertilizer at planting time for easy feeding. Sprinkle Osmocote into each planting hole or apply it on top after planting. One feeding will last all winter. Apply a second top dressing in March to enhance bright spring flowers.
Water them regularly, feed them well and fertilize them properly so they keep blooming all season long! 🌸
Recommended to Read: How to Water Succulents the Right Way
Why Choose Pansies for Planting?
Pansies are a perfect choice for adding bright color to the cool season because they grow best in low temperatures and easily tolerate winter cold. These flowers are cold-tolerant and bloom for a long time, making them a smart choice for fall planting. When you follow the proper planting and care steps, your garden will be full of vibrant colors from fall to spring.
For professional guidance, healthy plants, and reliable gardening tools, visit Westwood Gardens. Enjoy planting and watch your garden come to life!
