Propagation protocol for early blue violet (Viola adunca Sm. [Violaceae])

Abstract

Early blue violet (Viola adunca Sm. [Violaceae]) is the key larval host plant of threatened fritillary butterflies found along the western coast of North America. This small-statured species has not been readily available in restoration seed mixes because of the time and cost investments required for collecting seeds and the irregular flower and fruit development that occurs over the course of the growing season. We have developed an efficient method for seed production that facilitates the recovery of the butterfly taxa, and it supplies seeds for grassland restoration projects. Using greenhouse produced seedling plugs and weed barrier fabric in seed production fields allows for the increase and ease of seed collection during multiple years of seed production.