Johnny Jump-Up violas

[charliesunday]

I sowed some Johnny Jump-Up viola seeds at the beginning of February and now have trays full of seedlings. I planted some of these out onto the allotment yesterday and was told by that they won't flower now by another allotment owner. Am now feeling a bit glum, are they right?

[Jeanied]

They should be fine - they may flower next year or if you are lucky, over winter. You could sow later in the summer for next spring.
When do you sow Seed, use my Sowing Calendar

[charliesunday]

So there won't be any flowers this spring/summer? This gardening lark requires patience, doesn't it!

[stella]

Even if you have to wait a while for some flowers by then they should have really good roots and produce more flowers than ever.

[Two_Sheds]

They could well flower this year. But yes, gardening requires patience and forward planning. Always carefully read the packet so you know what to do when, and how long something takes to flower (or fruit)

If you're impatient for flowers, go buy a potted viola for instant colour

[Flummery]

There's always some clever clogs trying to ruin your day isn't there? Leve them there, keep them weeded and laugh at him when they flower!

[Jeanied]

The only other place I have heard of Johnny Jump up is in California - and they are valued because once they set seed after flowering, new plants jump up all by themselves!

[charliesunday]

Thanks for the replies, you've cheered me up a bit! Fingers crossed I get something this year, but if not then with a bit of luck next year should be lovely. I think I'd just assumed that they were a spring flower therefore if the packet said to sow in Feb, they would germinate and flower within a few months, rather than taking a year to bed in.