I'm interested in adding growing of flowers to a schoolyard, raised-bed, vegetable gardening project. Would like to grow violas and pansies in raised beds in the garden. However, I'm not experienced in growing members of this family of flowers.

Looking for info re: if I convert one of the raised beds into a cold frame, are there cold-hardy varieties that can be sown directly into cold frame soil in late winter/early spring? Or do we need to start the plants indoors, under grow lights and then transplant out?

This would be in NE PA in zone 5B. Any feedback is greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

John