African violets (Saintpaulia) are a great choice for indoor gardening. They are relatively easy to care for and will flower continuously with proper care. African violets typically live for several years indoors, with some specimens known to live for over 20 years.
The lifespan of an African violet plant grown indoors is typically between five and eight years. However, some plants have been known to live for much longer periods of time with proper care.
Are African violets hard to keep alive?
If you want to keep your African violet happy and healthy for years to come, there are a few key elements you need to master: potting, light, water, and temperature.
When it comes to potting, African violets need a special type of potting mix that is light and airy. They also need to be repotted every few years to keep them from becoming overcrowded.
Light is another important element for African violets. They need bright, indirect light to thrive. too much direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so be careful not to put them in a spot that gets too much sun.
Water is also important for African violets. They like to be kept moist, but not soggy. Water them from the bottom by filling a saucer with water and letting the plant soak it up from the bottom.
Finally, temperature is also important for African violets. They like to be in a spot that is warm, but not too hot. A spot near a window is usually a good spot for them.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your African violet happy and healthy for years to come!
Many growers of African Violets recommend repotting with fresh potting soil, twice a year or more. At the very least, an African Violet should be repotted whenever the plant becomes rootbound, ie, the Violet has outgrown its current pot to the extent that its roots are growing out and around the rootball.
How do you take care of an African violet indoors
African violets need indirect sunlight, so a north- or east- facing window is best. Keep plants away from cold glass and rotate the pot once a week so all leaves receive light. Extend daylight by placing African violets under a grow light during winter months.
When growing plants indoors, it is best to place them in bright, indirect light. A plant stand three feet away from a west- or south-facing window is an ideal location. Plants will still grow when situated right beside north- or east-facing windows, but leaves will be thin and spindly, and plants less likely to bloom.
How often should African violets be watered?
If you’re only watering your African violet once a week, it’s important to allow the plant to completely dry out between waterings. One way to make sure your plant is never over-watered is to set up a wicking system. This will help make sure your plant always has the perfect amount of moisture.
If you are watering your African violets from the top, be careful not to get water on the leaves when the plant is in the sun. This is to avoid leaf spots. Alternatively, you can water African violets from the bottom. It is important not to use cold water; lukewarm or warm is preferred.
Do African violets like bigger pots?
Choose a pot that is slightly smaller than what you would typically choose for your African violet plant. This will help to ensure that your plant is slightly pot-bound, which is ideal for these types of plants.
The easiest way to root African violets is in water using a leaf. You can take the leaf from your existing African violets, or even from a friend’s plant.
Do African violets like to be misted
When watering your African violet, be sure not to mist the foliage as this can cause permanent leaf spotting. Use room temperature water and water the plant at the base, being careful not to saturate the crown as this can lead to crown rot.
Coffee grounds can be used as a fertiliser for plants – both indoor and outdoor. The coffee grounds are a source of nitrogen which is beneficial for the plant, producing healthy green growth and strong stems.
Should I remove leaves from African violet?
Pruning African Violet leaves is important to keep the plant healthy. Remove three or more bottom leaves every month to help make room for new growth and to give the remaining foliage space to stretch out. Remove any dead or dying flowers during leaf pruning to free up even more energy.
In general, it’s not a good idea to brush the leaves of African violets (or any other houseplants), as this can remove essential oils and damage the plant. If you must dust the leaves, do so gently with a soft, dry cloth.
How do I keep my African violet blooming
If you are looking to grow African violets successfully, please note that they prefer bright, indirect sun. Too little sunlight causes them to stretch for the light and produce few or no flowers, while too much sun can burn the leaves. An east-facing window is ideal, especially with a sheer curtain to block the sun’s harshest rays. African violets also need eight hours of darkness every night in order to flower properly.
If your African violet isn’t blooming, don’t despair! Here are eight tips to get it blooming again:
1. Let There Be Light: African violets need 12-16 hours of bright, indirect light each day in order to bloom. If your plant isn’t getting enough light, move it to a brighter spot.
2. Turn Up the Humidity: African violets thrive in humid conditions. If your home is on the dry side, try running a humidifier near your plant.
3. Replenish Essential Nutrients: African violets need regular fertilization in order to bloom. Use a balanced fertilizer and water your plant weekly.
4. Keep it Pleasant: African violets prefer temperatures of 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s too cold or hot where your plant is, move it to a more comfortable spot.
5. Choose the Right Soil: African violets need a well-draining, African violet potting mix. Be sure to use a pot with drain holes to prevent waterlogged roots.
6. Protect From Pests & Disease: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases that can damage your African violet. Treat any problems
What do African violets symbolize?
African violets are a beautiful flower that has a lot of meaning behind it. The symbolism of African violets is devotion, commitment, and faithfulness. No matter what the cause is, these flowers represent staying loyal and dedicated to something.
The quality of tap water can vary and in some cases, the levels of chlorine, chloramines, or dissolved solids can be high. This can adversely affect your African violets. To ensure the health of your plants, it’s best to use filtered or distilled water.
Conclusion
Most African violets will live for years with the proper care. They can be kept as houseplants or outdoors in shady areas.
African violets can thrive indoors if they are given the proper care. They typically live for two to five years, but with proper care, they can live much longer.
