African violets are native to Eastern Africa. They are popular houseplants around the world due to the fact that they can bloom almost continuously, if not several times per year. In nature african violets grow in cracks between limestone or epiphytically.
General Care
- Bright, cool location
- North, northeast, northwest windows
- Need 14-16 hours of light and 8-10 hours of total darkness to bloom
- Prefer comfortable room temperature and high >50% humidity
Potting Mixes
- High peat mixes to support fine roots
- pH 6.2-6.5
- Always have drain holes - do not let the plant sit in water
- Re-pot once a year in fresh potting mix
Fertilizer
- Prefer to be fertilized lightly with each watering, flush monthly to remove any build up
Sizing
- Miniature - <8” wide
- Standard - 8-16” wide
- Large - >16” wide
Repotting
- Pick a shallow pot 1/3 the size of the plants leaves
- Use correct mix, and repot often
- DO NOT pack soil, roots benefit from air pockets
Interesting Pots
References
https://extension.umn.edu/houseplants/african-violets
https://africanvioletsocietyofamerica.org/learn/violets-101/tips-for-successful-repotting/