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Online Library / Fall
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| Article - African Violets |
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Category: Indoor Plants
The Lure of the African Violet
Since the day Baron Walter von Saint Paulia first discovered the African violet blooming in Tanganyika in 1890, these plants have attracted the enthusiastic interest of indoor gardeners the world over.
Not long ago, if you had an African violet, and it actually bloomed . . . you invited your friends over to celebrate. Everyone thought that getting them to flower was a major feat, but modern varieties are much more robust and freer flowering. A beginner cannot expect to match the expert in keeping the plant in bloom continually for 10 months or more, but there should be no difficulty in producing several flushes each year.
We often hear the question WHY DOESN'T MY AFRICAN VIOLET BLOOM? There are five basic needs - steady warmth, careful watering, good light, high air humidity and regular feeding. There are many reasons why a violet does not bloom.
Needs more light. Test the plant by placing your hand between the light source and the plant. If your hand casts a shadow, the light should be okay. Too much light is also not good for the plant. Protect it from direct sunlight with a sheer curtain.
Needs a cooler room. Violets prefer daytime temperatures between 68 and 75, night temperatures in the low 60's.
Needs fresh potting mix. Repot every six months. The mix breaks down and becomes too acid.
Needs a change in fertilizer. Select a fertilizer with a high number in the middle.
Needs less fertilizer. Too much promotes leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
It has been overwatered. The soil should be kept damp - not soggy. When the pot seems light when lifted in your hand, it is probably time to water.
Needs air circulation but dislikes drafts. Keep away from open window or door, or the breeze from a fan.
Too many crowns. 'Suckers' which develop into crowns will compete for space, food, and moisture. Grow one crown to a pot.
Needs constant care. Give your plant attention - turning it every other day or so, water when dry, open the curtains on cloudy days, close them when the sun beats in , pick off spent blooms, dust the leaves with a soft brush, wash the leaves occasionally to remove house dust and repot when necessary. If you do all these things and the little rascal refuses to bloom - get a variety which has a reputation for being a good bloomer.
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Forth Floral Inc. ~ P.O. Box 616, Rhinelander WI. 54501 ~ TF: 1-800-382-4942 P: 715-362-7600
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