Pansies are hardy perennials that are grown as annuals in cooler climates. They grow 6 to 9 inches tall with a multitude of color varieties to choose from. Pansies have a fast growth rate in full sunlight. When purchasing bedding plants, look for hardy seedlings that have four to five leaves and maybe a flower bud or two. Check under the leaves of the seedlings for insects along the stems. Do not choose any pansy plant that has discolored leaves or wilting.
Mix together seven parts of potting soil with three parts peat moss to create a lightly textured soil.
Add two parts compost to enrich the soil mixture with organic materials.
Add tw oparts sand to your soil mixture to improve the drainage of the mix. This will help keep the roots from suffering from root rot.
Fill your plant pot up to 2 inches from the rim of the pot with your soil mixture.
Tip out your seedlings and separate them carefully so you do not rip their roots. Gently spread out the pansies' roots.
Dig a small hole the same depth as the roots of the seedling with your hand.
Place the seedling in the hole and firmly pack the soil around the plant. Make sure the crown of the pansy is above the soil.
Plant the rest of the pansies in your plant pot. Ideally, the pansies should be about 10 inches apart, but for a mass of instant color, plant them closer together.
Flood the top of the plant pot with water and allow it to run out the bottom of the container. Place the pansies in filtered light for two to three days to help prevent transplant shock.