How to Grow Pansy
Annual
Pansies are cheerful, cool-season bedding plants, loved for their expressive faces and broad range of colours. Though commonly treated as annuals, many will flower through autumn, winter and spring when conditions are kind. They are especially valuable for giving containers and borders colour when summer bedding has finished.
Planting
For autumn and winter colour, sow from June to July in a cool, shaded place or buy young plants from late summer. Plant from September to October, spacing 15 to 20 cm apart. For spring and early summer display, sow in late winter under cover or plant bought bedding from March, once soil is workable. In very cold northern or Scottish gardens, use sheltered pots or wait until the worst winter weather has passed.
Care
Grow pansies in sun or light shade in moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. Water container plants whenever compost begins to dry, especially under eaves. Remove faded flowers and developing seed pods regularly to prolong bloom. Pick off yellowing leaves and avoid overcrowding. During severe frost, move pots to a sheltered position or protect them with horticultural fleece.
Bloom time
Autumn-planted pansies can flower from September into winter, pause in the coldest weather, then bloom strongly from February to June. Spring-planted pansies generally flower from March or April into early summer, fading as hot weather arrives.
Garden uses
Pansies excel in pots, hanging baskets, window boxes, front-door displays and neat border edging. Mix them with bulbs such as tulips or dwarf narcissus for spring layers. Their compact habit makes them ideal where a small space needs sustained colour during the quieter gardening months.
Tips
Deadheading is the simplest route to a longer display. Choose plants with many buds rather than those already carrying masses of open flowers. Ensure containers have drainage holes, because cold, saturated compost damages roots. In mild spells, ventilate sheltered plants to reduce stale, damp conditions around the foliage.
Growing Pansy: frequently asked questions
How do I grow pansy in the UK?
For autumn and winter colour, sow from June to July in a cool, shaded place or buy young plants from late summer.
When does pansy flower?
Autumn-planted pansies can flower from September into winter, pause in the coldest weather, then bloom strongly from February to June.
How do I care for pansy?
Grow pansies in sun or light shade in moisture-retentive but well-drained soil.
General guidance for UK gardens. Timing and hardiness vary by region and season; the RHS or a local garden centre can advise for your area. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.