Love African violets?
Make sure you’re not making these common mistakes!
Check out the top 7 things to avoid for happy, blooming plants.
Ready to keep your violets thriving?
Let’s get started!
1. Using the Wrong Soil
African violets need a special kind of soil that’s different from regular potting mix. Use a light, well-draining soil or a mix made specifically for African violets.
If the soil is too heavy, the roots can get waterlogged and rot. If you can’t find a mix specifically for these beauties, you can make your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite.
2. Overwatering
These plants don’t like to sit in water. Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes.
Let the soil dry out a bit between waterings. A good rule of thumb is to feel the top inch of soil.
If it’s dry, it’s time to water. Also, consider using a well-draining pot so excess water can escape.
3. Not Enough Light
African violets need bright, indirect light to grow well. If they don’t get enough light, they might not flower and the leaves can become leggy.
Place them near a north or east-facing window. If natural light is a problem, you can use a grow light.
Just make sure not to place them in direct sunlight to avoid leaf burn.
4. Getting Water on the Leaves
Water on the leaves can cause spotting or even lead to fungal problems. When you water your plants, try to pour water directly onto the soil.
You can also use a self-watering pot to keep the leaves dry. If you do get water on the leaves, gently blot it off with a paper towel.
5. Skipping the Fertilizer
African violets need a little extra nutrition to flower well. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and follow the instructions on the packaging.
Feeding them every 4-6 weeks should be enough. If you notice the leaves are pale or the plants aren’t flowering, they might need a bit of a nutritional boost.
6. Not Repotting
These plants can outgrow their pots, and when that happens, they need more room. Repot your African violets every 6-12 months.
Look for signs like roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant looking crowded. When repotting, use fresh African violet mix to give them a healthy start in their new home.
7. Ignoring Pests
Yes, even African violets can get pests. Keep an eye out for insects like aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs.
If you see any, act quickly. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the problem.
Regularly check the leaves and stems for any unwelcome visitors to keep your plants healthy.