Viola ‘Irish Molly’

Description

Viola ‘Irish Molly’ is a vibrant perennial that adds a touch of colour and charm to any garden or container. Known for its stunning flowers in shades of purple and yellow, this variety thrives in various garden settings. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, following this planting and aftercare guide will ensure your Viola ‘Irish Molly’ grows beautifully season after season.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The best time to plant Viola ‘Irish Molly’ is during early spring, once the frost has passed. This allows the plant to settle in and develop a strong root system before the summer heat arrives.
• Autumn: You can also plant Viola in autumn. Planting in the cooler months gives the plant enough time to establish itself before the colder weather sets in, ensuring a strong start to the next growing season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Viola thrives in areas that receive partial sun to full sun. Ideally, place your plant where it can get at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. While it can tolerate some shade, it will produce the most vibrant blooms with proper sunlight exposure.
• Soil: Ensure that the soil is well-drained for Viola ‘Irish Molly’. The plant doesn’t like sitting in waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot. Enrich the soil with compost to improve both fertility and drainage.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice the width of the root ball and about the same depth. This provides ample space for the roots to spread out comfortably.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix in some compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance its structure and improve drainage. Viola grows best in rich, well-draining soil.
3. Planting: Place the plant in the hole so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole gently, pressing the soil around the plant to remove air pockets.
4. Watering: After planting, water your Viola generously to help settle the soil. This also encourages the roots to start establishing themselves in the new location. Ensure the soil drains well after watering.

Watering

• Growing Season: Once established, Viola has moderate water requirements. Water regularly during dry spells, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as excess moisture can lead to root issues.
• Dormant Season: During winter, reduce watering significantly. Viola enters a dormant phase during the cold months and doesn’t require much water. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Early Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to provide Viola ‘Irish Molly’ with the nutrients it needs to start the growing season strong. This will encourage vibrant blooms and healthy growth.
• Mid-Season: A light feeding in mid-summer can help maintain flower production throughout the growing season, ensuring that your Viola continues to look its best.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove faded flowers from your Viola to encourage new blooms and keep the plant looking tidy. This also helps to extend the flowering season, ensuring your plant remains colourful for longer.
• Autumn Care: After the flowering period is over, trim back any dead or damaged foliage. Viola benefits from a light trim to prepare it for the colder months.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your Viola in spring. This helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature, providing a more stable environment for the plant.
• Winter: In colder months, adding mulch around the plant’s base helps protect the roots from freezing temperatures and keeps them safe during frost periods. Use organic mulches like bark chips or compost.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking: Viola ‘Irish Molly’ is a relatively compact plant that typically doesn’t require staking. However, if your garden experiences strong winds, consider adding support to prevent damage.

Final Tips for Growing Viola ‘Irish Molly’

Viola ‘Irish Molly’ is a low-maintenance perennial that will add colour and charm to your garden throughout the year. By following these simple care guidelines and ensuring it is planted in well-drained soil with ample sunlight, your Viola will thrive and reward you with its stunning blooms season after season.