Growing no taller than 15-20cm in height, the flowers seems to bloom almost endlessly in our forgiving Australian climate. Johnny Jump Up provide an excellent border of colour to the domestic garden and presents a tempting offering of delights not just for the home gardener, but also the array of beneficial insects it attracts.
PLANTING
Sow lightly in a tray of seed compost (not just any old bag of compost you need it sifted finer for seeds), and transplant when seedlings are large enough to handle. To avoid transplant shock water them in with eco-seaweed when transplanting.
WATERING
In ground: Water daily for the first 4 weeks and 3-4 times a week in the absence of rainfall thereafter. Watering frequency may need to be elevated during hot weather.
In Pots: Water daily, in the absence of rainfall, for the entirety of its lifecycle. The best practice is to water in the morning, however on extremely warm days a late afternoon water may also be necessary.
MAINTENANCE
Protect seedlings from snails and slugs with a trap or copper tape. You may also want to watch out for aphids and apply a soapy spray if they won’t wipe off with your hand or a spray of the hose. Mulch with an organic mulch such as sugar cane or lucerne hay.
HARVESTING
Time until first harvest: 75-90 days
How to harvest: Pinch or snip behind the head. Harvested flowers can be stored by placing them on a damp paper towel in a sealed container. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
TIP
Viola is an excellent self seeder and will continue to regenerate and bloom with minimal encouragement.
