By Laurie Zitterkopf, Nebraska Extension Master Gardener
Similar to dandelions, native violets are beneficial for aerating the soil and enriching it with nutrients. Their deep roots break up compacted soil, improving aeration and drainage. This action helps pull essential nutrients, such as potassium and calcium, to the surface, where they become available to other plants. While the root systems are working for us below the surface above the ground parts of the violets are working for us and are also used in the kitchen.