How to Grow Sweet Violet

Transplant sweet violet into the ground in the spring after the last frost of the season. Choose an area that is partially shaded. The ideal location will receive sun in the morning and be in light shade in the afternoon.

Plant in a rich, well-drained soil high in organic content. Sweet violet prefers a soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0, with 6.0 to 6.5 being ideal.

Arrange the plants in groups of three to five, spaced 4 to 6 inches apart. Use a hand spade to dig a shallow hole for each plant large enough to accommodate the root system. Set the plant in the hole and refill with soil. Tamp the soil lightly to firm it around the sweet violet plants.

Cover the sweet violet plants with a cold frame during the winter months to insulate them from severe temperatures if necessary. The plants may not bloom in areas where temperatures drop below 10 degrees Fahrenheit unless they receive cold weather protection. Applying a thin layer of mulch will provide adequate winter protection in milder areas.

Fertilize the sweet violets once in early spring with a liquid fertilizer to encourage more blooms. Follow the product's label instructions.

Monitor the sweet violets for signs of pests, such as mealybugs, mites, sawflies and slugs. Signs of infestation include damage to foliage and blooms as well as the presence of webbing or eggs. Contact your local county extension office for recommendations regarding pest management in your area.