Colossus Mix Pansy brings together a vibrant array of colors, including yellows, purples, whites, reds, and blends with bold blotches. This mix showcases the Colossus Series' signature traits: heat tolerance, extra-large blooms, and a tight, non-stretching habit that ensures reliability in summer and fall gardens. Perfect for gardeners who love variety and bold displays, the Colossus Mix thrives in hot and humid conditions while maintaining its vibrant blooms.
Pansy Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow pansy seeds outdoors in late summer for a fall bloom or in early spring after the last frost date. Pansies thrive in cool weather and tolerate light frost.
- Location: Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade. Pansies prefer well-draining, fertile soil and perform well in cooler climates.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches and incorporate compost to improve fertility. Pansies thrive in soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep and lightly cover with soil or compost.
- Space seeds or thin seedlings to 6-8 inches apart to allow proper airflow and room for growth.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until seeds germinate, which typically takes 10-14 days. Water regularly once plants are established, especially in dry conditions.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start pansy seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last expected frost date.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/8 inch deep and cover lightly with soil or vermiculite.
- Mist the soil gently to keep it evenly moist without waterlogging.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 10-14 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and the risk of frost has passed. Space plants 6-8 inches apart.
General Care Tips for Pansies
- Sunlight: Provide full sun to partial shade for best growth. In warmer climates, pansies benefit from afternoon shade.
- Watering: Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as pansies perform poorly in dry conditions.
- Fertilizing: Enrich the soil with compost before planting. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy blooms.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Remove yellowing or dead leaves to maintain a tidy appearance.
- Pest and Disease Control: Pansies are relatively pest-resistant but may attract aphids or slugs. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or hand-pick slugs. Proper spacing and watering at the base of the plant help prevent fungal issues like powdery mildew.
- Harvesting:
- For Flowers: Harvest blooms for decoration or culinary use when fully open. Pansy flowers are edible and can be used as garnishes or in salads.
- Storage: Use fresh pansy blooms immediately for the best quality. If needed, store in a cool, dry place for up to 24 hours.
