Dr. Grow: Be macho, plant pansies

The American Heritage Dictionary defines a pansy as (I'm trying to be politically correct) a nonmacho male. The implication is that a pansy can't handle stress of any kind and will wilt under extreme conditions. It also states that a pansy is a flower of the genus Viola.

I'm not sure of the etymology of the word, because the two definitions seem to be a contradiction. All of the pansies that I have seen growing in the winter are hardy. In fact I have seen them growing and blooming with ice hanging on the blooms in January. I would say that this plant is a "macho" plant.

I have written about pansies several times, but I evidently have not educated all of the gardening public. I still get surprised looks and comments such as "Really?" when I tell gardeners about pansies. So if you don't know much about them, here is your chance to learn.

Pansies are hybrids of a European species of viola. They are cool-weather plants that can withstand frost and some freezing conditions.

Pansies come in all colors of the rainbow. Some varieties are called blotch (two colors) while others are just single colors.

You will find several series of pansies, such as Majestic Giant, Winter Survivor, Icicle and Snow Angel. I have found little difference in hardiness in Southeast Missouri. I would select pansies based upon the color you like and the size of the bloom.

Plant these little beauties as early as you can in the fall. Give them plenty of time to get their roots established in the soil. When planting, amend your soil with peat moss and gypsum. Water them with a high-phosphorus fertilizer such as a 9-59-8.

Pansies do not spread far because they normally grow in cool conditions. I like to plant them about four inches apart.

Because pansies are cool-weather plants, they do not like hot conditions. If you intend to keep them blooming as long as you can in the spring, plant them in a shady area. If you intend to only keep them blooming until you can plant spring flowers, plant them anywhere.

Although the most popular fall flower in the area is the mum, consider planting some pansies. You will be glad you did when you find strong, healthy flowers blooming in your landscape during the drab months of January and February.

Send your gardening and landscape questions to Paul Schnare at P.O. Box 699, Cape Girardeau, Mo. 63702-0699 or by e-mail to news@semissourian.com.