Collection: Johnny Jump Up Seeds (heirloom)

Johnny jump-ups, sometimes known as pansies, violas, or violets, are all members of the Viola family. These little blooms are European natives, although they are far from delicate. Heirloom Johnny jump-ups are perennials that grow in zones 3 through 9. Johnny jump-ups self-seed furiously once established and will return year after year.

Start or direct sow your heirloom Johnny jump-ups in the spring or fall. Multi-sow seeds in trays and transfer seedlings outside ten to twelve weeks before the final frost if starting inside. Seedlings should be spaced approximately nine inches apart to allow adult plants to branch out. Choose a planting spot with healthy, well-draining soil and direct sow heirloom Johnny jump-ups after all threat of frost has gone. To protect the seeds from birds and give the darkness they require to germinate, rake a half-inch of earth over them. Johnny jump-ups don't care if they get full or partial light, if they're in planted beds or container pots; they'll happily live anywhere.

Heirloom Johnny jump-ups are robust self-seeders that spread fast, making them an ideal choice for ground cover. Johnny jump-ups are deer resistant and drought tolerant, flowering even on the hottest summer days. The more flowers you collect, the more blossoms bloom! To encourage new growth, pinch down leggy stems or damaged plants. Heirloom Johnny jump-ups are a low-maintenance plant with few health issues.

Did you know that the blossoms of Heirloom Johnny jump-ups are edible? Take a pinch of the blossoms and sprinkle them in a salad, or use them to amp up your homemade drinks. Alternatively, cover blooms in a sugar-egg mixture and bake in the oven for candied pansies—a wonderful treat that everyone will enjoy.

Choose from Eden Brothers' six Heirloom Johnny jump-up varieties—or, better yet, cultivate multiple kinds and stagger plantings to ensure color throughout the season. Try combining the Swiss Giants series with a mix and see if you don't end up with the most eye-catching garden on the block this year.

For more information about planting, growing, and caring for heirloom Johnny jump up seeds, see the Pansy Flower Seeds Planting Guide.