African violets
The tropical African Violet is one of the most popular houseplants in the world!
Light - Proper light is necessary for good blooming. Artificial or natural light are both good options.
Natural Light - African Violets want bright, indirect light, an east or north facing window is ideal.
Artificial Light - Many violet enthusiasts agree that African Violets bloom more profusely under grow lights. Use full-spectrum bulbs a total of 12-15 hours a day. Proximity of the light fixture depends on the wattage, so read the package for how close to position the light.
Temperature - African Violets prefer temperatures between 65-75 degrees. Keep them away from drafty windows or areas in which they could get chilled at night.
Watering - When watering African Violets make sure to use tepid water; cold water can cause spotting on the leaves. If water does get on the leaves, gently wipe it off with a cloth. African Violets are sensitive to dryness and prefer moist but never soggy soil.
African Violets can be watered from the top or the bottom. Traditionally, self-watering pots are commonly used. These pots consist of a smaller porous pot which fits into a larger pot that holds water. This type of watering can push excess salts to the surface and harm the plant. Once a month pour water through the plant to flush away these salts.
Fertilizing - African Violets need a regular supply of nutrients. This is especially important during the active growing season (March- September). A water soluble fertilizer designed for blooming houseplants is the best choice.
Repotting - African Violets like to be kept tight in their pots, but usually need repotting at least once a year as plants “neck” up. As the plant grows older, leaves drop off. Removing those leaves creates a “neck” on the plant. When you repot the African Violet and bury the neck below the soil surface, new roots will form giving the plant a boost.
Propagation - The easiest way to propagate new plants is by rooting leaves. Break off a mature, but not old, leaf; dip in rooting hormone and plant in a loose seed starting potting mix. Roots will start to form in 4-6 weeks.
Humidity - Homes are typically lacking the high humidity African Violets would prefer. Place plants on a pebble tray with a shallow layer of water. Do not allow plants to sit in the water.
Light - Proper light is necessary for good blooming. Artificial or natural light are both good options.
Natural Light - African Violets want bright, indirect light, an east or north facing window is ideal.
Artificial Light - Many violet enthusiasts agree that African Violets bloom more profusely under grow lights. Use full-spectrum bulbs a total of 12-15 hours a day. Proximity of the light fixture depends on the wattage, so read the package for how close to position the light.
Temperature - African Violets prefer temperatures between 65-75 degrees. Keep them away from drafty windows or areas in which they could get chilled at night.
Watering - When watering African Violets make sure to use tepid water; cold water can cause spotting on the leaves. If water does get on the leaves, gently wipe it off with a cloth. African Violets are sensitive to dryness and prefer moist but never soggy soil.
African Violets can be watered from the top or the bottom. Traditionally, self-watering pots are commonly used. These pots consist of a smaller porous pot which fits into a larger pot that holds water. This type of watering can push excess salts to the surface and harm the plant. Once a month pour water through the plant to flush away these salts.
Fertilizing - African Violets need a regular supply of nutrients. This is especially important during the active growing season (March- September). A water soluble fertilizer designed for blooming houseplants is the best choice.
Repotting - African Violets like to be kept tight in their pots, but usually need repotting at least once a year as plants “neck” up. As the plant grows older, leaves drop off. Removing those leaves creates a “neck” on the plant. When you repot the African Violet and bury the neck below the soil surface, new roots will form giving the plant a boost.
Propagation - The easiest way to propagate new plants is by rooting leaves. Break off a mature, but not old, leaf; dip in rooting hormone and plant in a loose seed starting potting mix. Roots will start to form in 4-6 weeks.
Humidity - Homes are typically lacking the high humidity African Violets would prefer. Place plants on a pebble tray with a shallow layer of water. Do not allow plants to sit in the water.