african violet care
African Violet Care
Popular as houseplants, African violets thrive well indoors, and bloom throughout the year. Here are some tips to take care of this plant.
- Soil: These plants require loose, well-drained soil. You may buy some soil mix, fertilizer, and pots that are specifically meant for these plants. Otherwise, plant them in soil that contains perlite, moss, etc., for sufficient drainage.
- Sunlight: Even though African violets cannot survive in harsh sunlight, they need at least eight hours of bright light for flowering. You may either place these plants on windowsills, where they get indirect sunlight; or provide them with fluorescent lights for 16 to 18 hours a day.
- Water: Watering must be done only when the soil looks dry. Over watering can lead to mold problems and rotting. Room temperature water without softeners are good for these plants. If you want to use tap water, then keep it overnight, so that the chlorine and fluoride dissipate. Water them once in two to three days, that too if the soil looks dry. It will be better to avoid wetting the leaves. If there is excess water in the pot, you have to drain it after some time.
- Humidity and Temperature: African violets need an average humidity, and a temperature range of 63° F to 75° F. During nighttime, these plants need a slightly lower temperature. However, never place African violets near air conditioners, vents, oven, cooking range, etc.
- Feeding: Regular use of fertilizers is often recommended for African Violets. It will be better to use water soluble fertilizers that can be absorbed by the plant easily. Avoid feeding these plants during winters. However, this is not applicable for those grown in artificial light.
- Foliage Removal: You have to remove the old and yellow leaves regularly. Even dead foliage has to be removed for the proper growth of the plant.
- Repotting: When the plant overgrows the pot, repotting has to be done. It is recommended to use pots with a diameter that is one-third the entire diameter of the plant. You may also remove the suckers (as soon as they develop) to maintain the shape and size of the plant.