Violas.--The hardy perennials are suitable for the front of flower
borders or rock-work, but the smaller species succeed best when grown
in pots in a mixture of loam, peat, and sand. The herbaceous kinds are
increased by seed or division of the roots, the shrubby varieties by
cuttings planted under glass, and the annuals by seed sown in the open
in spring. Height, 3 in. to 6 in.
Violets.--Plant the runners or off-sets in May in loam and leaf-mould,
choosing a damp, shady situation. Russian and Neapolitan Violets may
be made to flower throughout the winter and early spring by placing
them in a stove or warm pit. Dog-toothed Violets will grow in any
light soil. Autumn is the best time to plant them, and 1 in. of silver
sand round the roots prevents decay; they are hardy and early, but
will not bloom unless planted 9 in. deep. White Violets like a chalky
soil. One of the best manures for Violets is the ash from bonfires.
They may be multiplied to any extent by pegging down the side-shoots
in April. The common Violet flowers in March and April. Height, 6 in.
Virgilia.--For the most part greenhouse shrubs, requiring to be grown
in a compost of loam, peat, and sand. Young cuttings planted in sandy
loam and covered with glass will strike. The hardy kinds, such as V.
Lutea, grow in any light soil, and are increased by laying down shoots
in autumn or spring. July is the month in which they flower. Height,
from 2 ft. to 12 ft.
Virginian Creeper (_Ampelopsis Hederacea_).--May be propagated by
layers or cuttings, and will grow in any common garden soil. The
plant is also known as the Five-leaved Ivy, is a rapid grower, and a
favourite for covering unsightly walls.
Virginian Stock.--This pretty little hardy annual is readily raised
from seed sown on a border in autumn or spring. It is not particular
as to soil. Height, 9 in.