Early spring has few players in the garden that awaken the spirit and the landscape like violets. I especially like how they seem to appear overnight through a rush of brittle leaves like petaled placards declaring winter is behind us. Botanically speaking, they’re viola odorata. Don’t let their meek presence fool you; they pack a heady, lasting punch of sweet perfume.
When not being watered by wayward bulldogs, violets enjoy growing and spreading in dappled sunlight or light shade. In my garden they need little care and all but disappear in the summer resting up for their winter sleep and spring review.
A cordial glass of violets within arm’s reach and a well-placed nose can make a quiet moment magical; one more sniff and you’re guaranteed a self-induced daydream.
How beautiful & such gorgeous photography, as always. Violets really are nature’s jewels..would rather have just one of these than dozens of hothouse roses. Best of all, site of them really does mean it is spring! Thanks for sharing.
Love the bulldog! I used to have a shar-pei so I tend to gravitate toward the wrinkled look. Happy Spring.
The violets make me so happy every year. Your photograph is wonderful – poetic.
Ours change color – purple, white, lavender – from place to place in our yard. The honey bees are all over them and I’m waiting for the butterflies to notice them.
The violets are beautiful, but that Boz is one handsome guy.
I am glad spring is on its way.
Linda
Another gorgeous shot, beautifully scripted–always good to see what’s going on at Tall Canvas Farm.
I love that you include where you’ve gotten everything you post about because once I finish reading your posts I need to buy everything!
xo,
Sustainable Eats
I was going to say, these violets would be fabulous candied and placed atop a little cake or tart. Then I saw Boz…
Good point Eileen 😉
Maybe it’s time to move a few edible plants to the fenced-in herb garden. (No offense Boz)
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