BLUE BIBB VIOLA

BLUE BIBB VIOLA Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips

• Recommended Soil:
• Choose well-drained, sandy, gravelly, or rocky soil that does not remain soggy after rainfall.
• Birdfoot Violet naturally handles leaner soils and generally does not need rich, heavily amended ground.
• Good drainage is the most important soil consideration, especially during periods of prolonged moisture.
• Slightly acidic through alkaline soil can be suitable when drainage and site conditions are favorable.
• Sun Exposure:
• Full sun is recommended for the strongest flowering and most dependable garden performance.
• A location receiving 6 or more hours of direct sunlight is an excellent target.
• Avoid crowded locations where taller plants may eventually shade this petite native perennial.
• Bright, open sites help showcase both the flowers and the distinctive bird-foot-shaped foliage.
• Irrigation Needs:
• Water regularly while establishing, then gradually reduce irrigation as the root system becomes established.
• Once established, Birdfoot Violet is notably tolerant of dry conditions and occasional drought.
• Allow the soil to dry somewhat between thorough waterings rather than keeping it consistently saturated.
• Excess moisture and poor drainage can increase the risk of crown and root problems.
• Feeding & Nutrients:
• Fertile soil is not required; this native violet is naturally adapted to lean, well-drained sites.
• A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be considered in spring if growth appears weak.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can encourage foliage at the expense of flowering and compact form.
• Healthy soil structure and proper drainage are more important than aggressive fertilization.
• Pruning & Maintenance:
• Little routine pruning is necessary because Birdfoot Violet naturally maintains a compact, low-growing habit.
• Remove tired or damaged foliage as needed to keep the planting looking tidy.
• Do not expect the spreading, runner-producing behavior associated with some familiar garden violets.
• Keep competing vegetation from overtaking the plant so its petite foliage and spring flowers remain visible.

Family: Violaceae · Common Name: Viola

Viola is a very interesting plant that can be used in gardens and landscapes. It is a reliable perenial for shade gardens. It is best to avoid full sun exposure. 

Growing and Maintenance Tips for Viola

Plant in well draing soils with a PH between 5-7. Soils high in organic matter will help Viola become well established. Water as needed to keep soil damp but not overly wet. Fertilize with a liquid fertilizer through out the growing season or use a slow release fertilizer in the spring. 

Viola Interesting Notes

FREE with every plant purchased:

• The Sooner Guarantee: For details, click here!
• A pre-applied, pre-measured amount of time release fertilizer that keeps your plant well nourished for up to one year.
• Pre-hydrated Hydro-Gels are included in the top of each container to use when planting as they help retain soil moisture, and plants will establish more quickly with less transplant shock. Plants will also survive drought-like conditions and accidental missed waterings better.
• Planting and Care Instruction brochure.
• Catalogs of new and exciting plant brands, such as Garden Debut® and Proven Winners®.

We use and recommend www.dripdepot.com for our irrigation needs, from simple to install micro and drip systems, to commercial grade irrigation parts and supplies.

Interesting Notes About BLUE BIBB VIOLA

• Born in Bibb County: 'Blue Bibb' was selected from a population of Birdfoot Violet in Bibb County, Alabama, giving this cultivar a genuine connection to the southeastern native landscape rather than a purely ornamental backstory.
• A Violet With Manners: Unlike many familiar violets that can spread through underground runners or self-sown seedlings, Birdfoot Violet is much less aggressive in the garden and primarily relies on seed for reproduction.
• That Foliage Is No Coincidence: The deeply divided leaves are the botanical equivalent of a visual punchline—they look remarkably like a tiny bird's foot, which explains the wonderfully literal common name Birdfoot Violet.
• Butterfly Nursery Hidden Inside: Birdfoot Violet serves as a host plant for fritillary butterflies, meaning its value goes beyond pretty spring flowers and extends into the life cycle of native butterfly species.
• A Violet With Staying Power: 'Blue Bibb' was introduced as a selection through Juniper Level Botanic Garden and Plant Delights Nursery, and it has been noted for having an unusually long flowering period compared with other Birdfoot Violets observed by its introducers.