bird's foot violet

Depending on the season and the amount of light the bird's foot violet (Viola pedata) receives, the watering needs will vary. In the spring and summer months, when the plant is actively growing, it should be watered every 2 to 4 days, making sure that the soil is damp to the touch. However, during the winter months and in cooler climates, watering every 7 to 10 days should be sufficient. Additionally, the bird's foot violet should not be allowed to sit in water- log or soggy soil. Lastly, it is important to always check the soil and make sure it is not overly saturated before adding water.

Bird's foot violet requires direct sunlight for most of the day but should be protected from the intense midday sun and given some shade during the hottest part of the day. For best results, the plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to become pale and yellowed. If the plant is receiving too much sun, it should be moved to a location that provides bright, indirect light for much of the day.

Bird’s foot violet should be pruned in early spring, when the plant is just starting to become active again after the winter season. Pruning your Bird’s foot violet should be done lightly, leaving much of the foliage intact. This plant has a low tolerance for aggressive pruning, so it’s important to be gentle when shaping the plant and remove only a few of the tallest, longest branches. Too much pruning can cause stress and damage the overall health of the plant.