Pansy Planting Guide
Cheerful cool-season flower with face markings, among the most popular spring bedding plants
Best Time and Place to Plant Pansy
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Pansy in a spot with 4+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 45F to 70F, and enough room for 6 inches between plants and 12 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 1 to June 15 | August 1 to August 30 |
| Zone 2 | April 20 to June 10 | August 10 to September 15 |
| Zone 3 | April 10 to May 30 | August 15 to September 30 |
| Zone 4 | April 1 to May 20 | August 20 to October 1 |
| Zone 5 | March 20 to May 15 | August 25 to October 10 |
| Zone 6 | March 10 to May 10 | September 1 to October 20 |
| Zone 7 | March 1 to May 1 | September 10 to November 1 |
| Zone 8 | February 15 to April 20 | September 20 to November 15 |
| Zone 9 | February 1 to April 10 | October 1 to December 1 |
| Zone 10 | January 15 to March 30 | October 15 to December 15 |
| Zone 11 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
| Zone 12 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
| Zone 13 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 0.25 inches deep
- Spacing: 6 inches apart, 12 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 45F to 70F
- Sunlight: 4+ hours
- Watering: 1 inch per week; consistent moisture prevents wilting
- Days to harvest: 60
Fertilization
- Balanced 10-10-10 synthetic: Every 3-4 weeks during growing season
- Compost organic: 2 inches worked into soil before planting
Companion Plants
- Snapdragon
- Lettuce
- Viola
Avoid Planting Near
No avoid-planting conflicts are listed yet.
Harvest Signs
- Flowers are fully open and vivid in color
- Edible flowers — use in salads and garnishes
- Deadhead regularly to prolong blooming
- Blooming slows dramatically in summer heat
FAQs
When should I plant Pansy?
Pansy planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Pansy?
The best time of year to plant Pansy is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 45F to 70F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Pansy?
Plant Pansy in a spot with 4+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 45F to 70F, and enough room for 6 inches between plants and 12 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Pansy?
Plant Pansy about 6 inches apart, with rows around 12 inches apart.
What grows well with Pansy?
Pansy is commonly paired with Snapdragon, Lettuce, Viola.