The Violet Gazette

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Published by THE AMERICAN VIOLET SOCIETY

Volume 1, Number 1
Winter 2000
On line Version

PAGE 5

Jack's Patch

A Note From Norma:
This is the column of our old friend Jack, who with his family has been growing violets for generations.  Here he writes about his plants, issues and problems found throughout the season by mos violet enthusiast.  For anyone who experiences a  problem, who would like a little advice, or just wants to chat about violets, please post a message to Jack, either via email at: consult_jack@americanvioletsociety.org or via the AVS Discussion Forum and Jack will reply.  Now over to Jack

Hi, folks

Well, I’m looking round my garden and the violets are safely tucked up in their winter home, a bunch of cold frames and all along the benches in my greenhouses.   The pots have all been cleaned up; weeds removed as well as dead and dying leaves, and the surface compost has been stirred to break it up.  With the cold days of winter fast closing in we now have to watch our prized plants and give them a little cosseting.   When there are dry mild days, it is advisable to open up the lights on the frames and the vents on the greenhouses to let some fresh air circulate and help prevent mildew and other serious conditions.  Remember though that at the end of the day you should make sure those vents are shut down tight, and if frost or snow are forecast make sure you cover the frames with matting or use bubbly plastic stuff which is great for insulation, even in the greenhouse.

            All through the depths of winter our violets will need tending, so on those mild days, do take the trouble to remove any dead or yellowing foliage and gently stir the top soil and if necessary, give them a little water, but not too much, and remember not to get water on the leaves.

            There aren’t all that many pests around in the depths of winter, but it pays to keep an eye open just in case.  Remember, there will still be a load of hungry critters around looking for food, and violets are real tasty to a raccoon, squirrel or mouse.

            I hope in future newsletters to talk to you about all the pests and so forth that can cause problems for violet growers, and about some of the favorite violets that we enjoy growing.  Also, how to create a violet bed to provide seedlings, and maybe get some new violets all of your own.

Jack           

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