The African violet (Saintpaulia species) is a popular houseplant because it grows and flowers under natural or artificial light conditions found in the average home. Many different varieties, types and flower colours, that range from white, pink, lavender to vibrant purples, exist.
Drainage is one of the most important considerations in choosing or preparing a soil mixture for African violets. Pre-packaged African violet soil mixes are available or you can mix your own with equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite and perlite. Any pot is suitable as long as they have drainage holes.
Water African violets whenever the soil surface feels dry to the touch, but before it becomes hard or the plant wilts. African violets may be watered from the top or bottom. When watering from the top, apply enough water to thoroughly saturate the soil and discard excess water that drains through the bottom of the pot. Make sure the temperature of the water is the same or slightly warmer than that of the room. If cold water touches relatively warm leaves, it will cause yellowish spots or streaks on the upper leaf surfaces. Self-watering pots are also suitable for African violets.
African violets need 8 to 12 hours (up to 16 hours) of bright light (but not direct sunlight) and 8 hours of darkness per which is typically provided by a southeast or west facing window. The appearance of a plant will indicate whether light levels are too high, too low or just right. If light is too low, leaves are usually thin and deep green, and appear to reach up for light. The plants may grow, but will flower poorly or not at all. In such instances, supplemental artificial light will help promote flowering. Excessive light causes leaves to be pale or greenish-yellow. Where natural light is unavailable or reduced, African violets can be grown under artificial light.
Water-soluble fertilizers such as 20-20-20 or 15-30-15 are commonly sold for use on African violets. Mix the fertilizer in water at one-fourth the recommended rate and apply it each time you water. Discard excess water and fertilizer solution that drains from the bottom, because when over fertilized, African violets develop tight centers and the new leaves take on a rusty appearance.
Although I have never had any problems with African violets, various diseases can affect them. Adequate spacing in the pot, use of sterilized soil and prompt removal of faded flowers and unhealthy leaves will really help prevent disease problems. Here are a few tips if you encounter any of the following:
Mealy bugs and cottony egg masses can be controlled by mixing alcohol with an equal amount of water and touching each insect or egg mass with a cotton swab dipped in the solution.
Any other insects and mites can be managed with insecticidal soap sprays.
Cyclamen mites cause severe stunting of plants and are very difficult to control. Unfortunately, the best management strategy for this pest is to discard affected plants.
Root diseases are usually caused by over-watering. The first sign of this problem is usually a limp, unthrifty plant. In most cases the plant should be discarded.
Petiole (leaf stem) rot occurs when petioles touch the edge of the pot and develop brown, sunken areas at points of contact. This injury is caused by fertilizer salts that accumulate on the rims of clay pots. Petiole rot can be avoided by waxing the pot rim, covering it with aluminum foil or repotting to a larger pot.
Look for African violets the local nurseries (that sell houseplants) and flower shops this time of year. They are a rewarding flowering houseplant that is relatively easy to care for.
