My Nana had African Violets everywhere in her home…the kitchen, the dining room, her dressing vanity and, yes, even the laundry room… they were always in bloom. In college I promised my self I would figure out how to get that look. It’s surprisingly not hard and so rewarding to have beautiful year round blooms indoors. In my opinion African Violets are one of the easiest house plants to keep but there are a few basics that you need to know to understand these amazing little house plants.
5 need to know basics.
1) Sunlight is critical to beautiful blooms and growth, but you’re looking for a spot where the plant is getting good indirect light. Direct/hot sunlight can burn the plants. A sign of too much sunlight is yellowed leaves.
2) Water.Use room temperature or luke-warm water. It’s best to water from the bottom of the plant to protect the foliage from possible damage. The goal is to have top soil that is simply moist to the touch. Do not allow the soil to completely dry out or allow your violets to stand in water.
3) Fertilizer. This is critical to active blooms. If your plants aren’t blooming it’s most likely due to a lack of fertilizer. I use a water soluble fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the formula. Personally I fertilize every other watering cycle. Miracle-Gro liquid African Violet plant food, in the 8oz. container, is what I have used for years.
4) Grooming. As needed, remove old spent blooms and brown/aged leaves to encourage new blooms and proper growth. Most African Violets look best with no more the 5 rows of leaves as a reference.
5) Potting. Repotting the plant in fresh soil is essential to the plant’s lasting health. Repot in fresh soil every year or two. I have found it’s not necessary to use a larger pot. My violets actually do better in smaller pots, preferably clay or terracotta over plastic, as it helps prevent overwatering and provides more aeration.
