Pansies are cheerful, multi-colored flowers that among the first of the season to offer winter color and will continue to bloom into the early spring. Today’s hybrid versions are more adaptable to heat than those of the past with larger blooms displayed and more vigor. They prefer a full or part sun location and are happy in hanging baskets, combination containers and flower bed borders. Proper preparation of the soil goes a long way in helping keep your pansies happy. Work in organic material such as compost or well rotted leaves to a 4-inch depth before planting. This accommodates the growing pansy’s need for well-draining soil and provides nutrients as the organic material decomposes. When growing pansies in well-prepared soil, the need for fertilization will be minimal. Pansies also prefer acidic soil and for longer blooming periods and the equation is simple: water and deadhead them.