Just because we're heading into the colder months, doesn't mean your garden needs to wallow in dull ever-greens and bare branches. In fact, it's more than possible to add a splash of winter colour with vibrant flowering plants like viola.

What I like about this petite plant is it has a really nice colour range that well and truly fits the season - rich violets, cool yellows and crisp whites with a dash of colour.

Think your place could do with some brightening up this winter? Pick up some Awapuni Nurseries viola seedlings from your local supermarket, The Warehouse or Bunnings. Or take the easy option and head to our online store.

When thinking about where to plant, look for wide, open spaces. Violas grow really well alongside paving or patios. They also look fantastic in borders around spring bulbs or roses - particularly as the roses go dormant and lose their leaves.

And if you're a hanging basket fan (like I am), use violas to create a welcoming entrance at your place throughout the cooler months. You can also pop them in a pot - in fact they look great planted around the outside of potted shrubs or citrus trees.

Wherever you decide to plant, simply dig in a balanced fertiliser, like nitrophoska blue. Then plant your seedlings in small holes, about 20cm apart.

If placing them in a pot, make sure you use a good potting mix to provide all the nutrients they need. Nurture their love of space and, in particular, good air circulation, by keeping your pots away from places like under the eaves of your house. This will help prevent them getting downy mildew.

In about four to six weeks, you should be rewarded with that splash of colour. Just remember to pick off the dead heads to encourage them to flower, and you'll get to enjoy the effect for much, much longer.