Tips on African Violets?

Question

I know you are supposed to water them by sitting the pot in a bowl or bigger pot of water b/c if you wanter them by the leaves, it will rot. But what are some other things to help me be successful in growing?

Answer 1

See the link below for an example of a pot specially designed for african violets. There are many different brands, but they're all essentially the same thing - two pottery bowls made to fit one inside the other. The outside one is glazed to keep the water from seeping out, and the inner one is partially unglazed where it sits inside the larger pot. The water is placed in the larger pot and the smaller pot sits in the water. The water slowly seeps through the pottery, keeping the violet consistently watered, but never wet.

See the second link for a thorough description of basic african violet care.

Answer 2

There is special African Violet food, pots, and soil on the market. All of these items can be found at Wal-Mart, Lowe's, or Home Depot. Don't allow the soil to dry out and as you already know, water from the bottom. One thing that I think is one of the most important things to know is that African Violets bloom the best when they are root bound. If you plant it in bigger pots it will not bloom well, if at all. That's why the pots they sell made for the violets always seem so small. Hope this was helpful!

Answer 3

You only water them 1x a wk or when the soil feels very dry. They need sunlight but not direct sunlight. You can purchase food that is specifically for them it does wonders to make them grow.

Answer 4

I have heard it said you must talk to them every day. It's true. There is something about the vibrations of the sound waves of your voice that makes them flourish. Also don't fry them in direct sun light. If water gets on their leaves, the leaves die, pretty quick. Good luck.

Answer 5

Make sure they have partial sunlight. Direct sunlight will harm these delicate little guys.

Answer 6

ok