I did want to give a shout out to Jeff Jackson, who found my blog and sent me a few emails. He is the Canadian hybridizer of the Imp's series of violets, and we enjoyed a spirited discussion on violets and hybridizing. You'll recall my somewhat brutal review of Imp's Christmas Wrap, the pretty little plant that didn't seem to be blooming true. Although it grew well and had big, pretty blooms, I didn't feel it was novel enough to remain in my collection. However, after seeing photos of how it SHOULD be blooming, I'm anxious to try it again. Jeff confirmed that my plant was missing all its fantasy, and he has offered to get me a new, true one. Yay!!
Having a fantastic opportunity to pick the brain of someone who has successfully hybridized the small ones, I gleaned a few helpful tips from him on how to get my as-of-yet unsuccessful mini crosses to "take." So on one dreary, humid and rainy day, I spent a couple hours in the plant room "introducing" them to each other. (*wink, wink*)
It has now been over a month since that day, and I'm so thrilled to say that I have seed pods!! Thank you so much, Jeff! I figure even if I get just ONE seed pod, I have been successful (and will have enough work cut out for myself!)