Do African violets need special potting soil?
Do African violets need special potting soil?
A good potting soil for African Violets actually contains no soil (or dirt) at all. A good potting soil will be very light and porous, a quality which enhances aeration, while keeping the soil moist, but not soggy. For African Violets, the pH should be between 5.8 and 6.2.
Do African violets like to be root bound?
African violets only bloom when they're root bound. When it is time to repot, be sure to use an organic potting soil made specifically for African violets, such as Espoma's African Violet Mix. They flower best in small pots — choose one that's about a third of the diameter of their leaf spread.
How often should African violets be watered?
An African violet (Saintpaulia spp.) can last indefinitely, according to the Bay State African Violet Society. It's not unusual for them to live 50 years or more with proper care. The key is to avoid overwatering, chilling and direct sunlight — three things that can drastically reduce an African violet's lifespan.
Do African violets need sunlight?
African violets need indirect sunlight, direct can burn the leaves. Choose a north- or east- facing window for best results. Keep plants away from cold glass and rotate the pot once a week so all leaves receive light. Extend daylight by placing African violets under a grow light during winter months.
Can you repot African violets when they are blooming?
Think before replanting. African violets only bloom when they're root bound. When it is time to repot, be sure to use an organic potting soil made specifically for African violets, such as Espoma's African Violet Mix. They flower best in small pots — choose one that's about a third of the diameter of their leaf spread.
Can you divide African violets?
African violets often develop multiple crowns, which can be split apart and used to propagate new plants through a process called division. Division propagation creates mature African violet plants faster than other methods. However, they are susceptible to damage and must be handled with care to ensure success.
How do you root an African violet leaf?
As African violets mature, bottom leaves tend to yellow and fall from the plant. This results in elongated bare stems that appear leggy. Although the condition is the result of natural aging, your African violets lose their characteristic rosette of leaves at the base of the plant.
Is African violet soil acidic?
Soil is often defined by its pH levels, which indicate whether the soil is neutral, acidic or alkaline. Many plants will tolerate a wide range of pH levels, but most prefer a narrow range. African violets prefer slightly acidic levels of 6.0 to 6.5, according to the University of Florida IFAS Extension.