African Violets

These blooming beauties show their rich colors indoors, under conditions found in most homes. The African violet is a popular houseplant because it blooms indoors in wonderful shades of purple, blue, red, pink and white. There are even some bi-colored African violets, including one with creamy white flowers edged in deep purple. African violets can add long lasting color in your home and they are easy to care for.

 

Light, water, temperature, and drainage are all important factors when caring for your African violet. Place your African violet in a location with indirect or bright-diffused light. Direct sunlight is not required for the African violet to thrive, making it a versatile houseplant. Your plant will let you know if it is in the wrong light conditions. If your plant is in too much light, the leaves will turn pale or greenish-yellow. Growth will slow down if the light is too bright and flowering will decrease. If your plant is in a location where the light is too low, the leaves will turn dark green, and stretch up for the light. The plants will grow in low light, but flower poorly or not at all. To bloom continuously, African violets need 8 to 12 hours of light, and 8 hours of darkness per day.

 

Water is another important element in caring for your African violet. In general, water your African violet when the surface feels dry to the touch, but before the soil becomes hard, and before the plant wilts. When watering, avoid splashing cold water on the leaves as this may cause spots to appear on the leaves. Try to use water that is at least the same temperature or slightly higher than room temperature. African violets planted in clay pots may need to be watered more often that those planted in plastic pots due to evaporation. Make sure your African violets do not sit in water and have good drainage when you water. 

 

African Violets prefer temperatures during the daytime between 70-75 degrees, and at nighttime between 65-75 degrees. African violets grow best in high humidity, which can be achieved by setting the pots in plastic trays filled with pebbles and water. Do not set your plants directly in the water, for their roots might rot.

 

When you fertilize your African violet, use a 20-20-20, or a 15-30-15 mix, and dilute it at one-quarter strength and apply it each time you water. If the leaves on your plant are losing color and the plant is flowering poorly, it may be a sign your plant needs some food.    Remove any wilted or spent blooms to discourage rot. Also remove any dead or dying leaves to avoid crown rot.

 

Add an African violet to your houseplant collection and enjoy their rich, long lasting blooms and their cheery deep green velvety leaves.