Pansies
You know spring has arrived when you see the colorful faces of pansies blooming in the greenhouses. Pansies are the perfect flower for early spring as they thrive in cooler temperatures. Because pansies are very hardy, they typically can be set outside a month or so before the last frost after hardening off*. Pansies are wonderful container plants, but can also be added to garden beds. These plants prefer well-drained soil full of organic matter, and filtered sun (especially during the hot summer months).
*Hardening Off ~ A process of acclimating plants that have been growing indoors to outdoor weather conditions. Gradually move your plants outdoors for a portion of the day to introduce them to the sun, wind and cold night temperatures. This process usually takes a week or two.
Make sure to protect these plants. If temperatures drop below 35 degrees be sure to bring them inside or cover them to protect from the frost.