How to Grow African Violets
Planning the Site to Grow African Violets
You must find a spot indoors where you can grow African violets without being hit directly by sunlight. Ample filtered light is the key to optimal growth. An excess of light will burn the plant and lack thereof will stunt growth. During cold months when heating is necessary, temperature should range between 70 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 65 degrees during the night. The soil for planting African violets should range from pH 5.8 to 6.2. Anything higher or lower than that could hinder the plant’s absorbance of nutrients.
Preparing the Site for Growing African Violets
The potting for African violets should be airy and sterilized. The pot should allow root penetration for the plant to grow. If you choose to use soil for planting, make sure it is of the loose kind. Mix one-third peat moss, one third garden soil, and one third sand. Per quart of this mixture, mix a teaspoon of bonemeal. You can also use commercial organic soil mixtures or soilless plant mixes containing perlite, vermiculite, or sphagnum peat. The mixture should be moist though never excessively wet. Apply liquefied organic fertilizer only on the surface of the soil.
Required Materials for Growing African Violets
The materials needed for growing African violets include the plotting mixture or material, organic fertilizers such as bonemeal, artificial lighting if necessary, pots, saucers, and various pruning and gardening tools.
Watering Requirements of African Violets
African violets should be watered from the bottom. Smaller plants in netted pots or the like could be put on a saucer with water and be allowed to ‘drink’ for half an hour. Larger plants could be watered from the top though it is essential to avoid over-watering. Wipe off any excess water on the leaves to avoid spotting.
Nutrients Required by African Violets
African violets need nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and various other trace elements, vitamins and minerals.
Seasons for Growing African Violets
African violets could be grown in any season as long as they are kept properly cared for. They thrive best in humid climates though and would require no watering during such conditions.
Expectations/Results
African violets are a delight to any gardener with their spectrum of colors and varieties. If properly cared for, flowers of some species of this plant could reach up to three inches in diameter.