38 PANSY, VIOLA AND VIOLET 



suitable soil in which they can produce the best results. 

 It is a commonly understood fact that Pansies will grow 

 well in any soil. And so they will, and it is to this fact 

 that we owe so much. But at the same time, if by 

 preparing the soil specially for them, much better results 

 are possible in the shape of larger flowers, healthier 

 growth, and more sustained flowering qualities ; it 

 behoves the grower, if he be desirous of letting the 

 plants show their capabilities to the utmost extent, 

 specially to prepare the soil, and so make, at any rate, 

 one factor, and this an important one, conducive to their 

 well-being. 



What then is the best soil in which to grow pansies ? 

 This, without doubt, is good loamy soil (inclining towards 

 the heavy side if anything), with the addition of horse or 

 cow manure at the time of digging, and in this the plants 

 should do well. 



Of course, all soil is not of this description, and the 

 existing soil has to be so modified by means of manure, 

 etc., as to produce the same good result. 



If the soil is of a very sandy character, plenty of good 

 rotten cow manure should be incorporated. This enables 

 it to retain moisture for a long period, and prevents it 

 from becoming too hot and dry, as otherwise it would be. 

 Pulverised clay and the addition of vegetable manure 

 will also tend to increase its moisture-retaining qualities. 

 Soil of this sandy character is, in its natural state, the 

 worst suited of all for growing Pansies. 



Then there is soil of a light sandy loam character. 

 Although far better than the last named, this will 

 require the addition of cow manure, though clay may 

 be dispensed with. 



As before mentioned, a good medium loamy soil is the 

 best suited for Pansy growing, and in this the plants 

 should revel. Soil of this character is sufficiently porous, 

 and at the same time retentive of moisture, keeping the 



