Double African Violets

Plants in item:
• African Violent

African Violet Description

African violets are without a doubt, one of the most popular houseplants around. They are very easy to care for, and don't take much room at all, so they make a great windowsill plant. There's an African violet in a color for everybody, from whites, pinks, and purples, to bicolors with single and double blooms. If you've ever picked up a violet plant, you may have noticed a label that said "Optimara". Optimara is probably the best known violet producer in the country. They have produced a number of different theme series, naming their violets with different girls' names, the signs of the Zodiac, states and cities, and even different countries.

Violets range in size from miniatures of a few inches across, to sizable plants up to 1.5' or more. There are special pots made for violets (which can also be used for other plants), called self-watering containers, or violet pots. They consist of 2 pieces, an outer pot that is sealed on the inside to retain moisture, and an inner pot that the plant is planted into. This pot is porous so water can seep into it. These are available in a number of sizes, colors and styles. Violets also perform well in plastic pots. They can be potted into clay pots, but this will often result in a buildup of salts on the edges of the pots, which can damage the leaves.

African Violet Lighting Conditions

Medium to indirect light.

Repotting Your African Violet

Repotting is only needed if the plant outgrows the container it is in. Violets can be very large on top, but not have much of a root system down below. Be sure to check first to make sure it needs repotting. Use Fafard African Violet soil when you repot.

African Violet Watering

Keep soil evenly moist. Try to avoid getting water on the leaves as this can cause brown leaf spots. Most violets take up water very easily if you let them sit in water for a short while. Be sure to drain any excess water left after 15 minutes or so.

How to Fertilize Your African Violet

Feed every time you water with Schultz African Violet food

Problems and Solutions

Mealybugs are known to hide on the undersides of the leaves, and aphids will cluster on the flower buds. If the blooms are discolored and distorted, mites or thrips could be the problem. Help prevent all these insect problems by applying Hi-Yield Systemic Insecticide Granules once a month. Stem and crown rot can be problems if the soil is waterlogged, and the temperatures are too cool.

Other Info

You can easily create more violets by taking leaf cuttings.