African Violet Frozen In Time? Top 89 Best Answers

Unpacking plant life’s most controversial issue

African violets are known for their vibrant foliage, making them one of the most popular houseplants in the world. But you might be wondering, “Why wouldn’t you want to see those beautiful blooms?” Like many gardeners, you probably want to display these gorgeous plants outdoors.

This begs the question: will African violets grow outside?

When it comes to caring for African violets, there’s a lot of bickering between “best” techniques and “this usually works for me!” – which can make online forums quite daunting. So we’ve put together everything there is to know (and discuss!) about growing African violets outdoors.

But first! If you’re looking for a simple answer, let’s start with the shortened version:

TL;DR (too long; didn’t read): Will African violets grow outside?

The short answer: don’t count on it.

African violets cannot survive outdoors in most cases. Although these are fairly hardy plants, you need to get their conditions just right. And since African violets come from the rainforests of Tanzania, your garden probably isn’t up to the challenge. Outdoor environments are simply too unpredictable to provide the Goldilocks conditions these plants need to thrive.

For Best Success: Grow your African Violets indoors.

However, there is a lot of disagreement in the fine print. Some growers argue that certain regions offer more favorable conditions; others swear their African violets do best when left outside for periods of time; and many say a definite “NO” when asked the question.

So, let’s take a look at everything you need to know about growing African violets outdoors.

Will African violets grow outside? The Director’s Cut

While almost every grower warns against growing African violets outdoors, there are always a few who object. If you’re determined and determined to take on the great outdoors, there are a few things you need to know. First, why is it such a challenge. Second, which climates are more compatible with outdoor growing (and which ones aren’t!). And finally how you could possibly get around it.

Why is it difficult to grow African Violets outside?

African violets are best grown indoors for a number of reasons, most stemming from the environment in which they evolved. Beneath the jungle canopy, African violets adapted to comfortable temperatures, sun protection, and a humid atmosphere. Most regions are too hot or too cold, too sunny or too wet, or have low or unstable humidity. African violets are also susceptible to pests and insect damage, which of course is a bigger problem outdoors.

As I said, you face a challenge!

But regular violets can grow outside!

Scam Alert: African violets aren’t actually violets at all! Each member of the African violet species list belongs to the genus Saintpaulia and has no relation to Violaceae — the plant family that contains hundreds of species of true violets. African violets get their common name from their superficial resemblance to true violets. But with wildly different origins and evolutionary paths, what works for a “normal” violet may not necessarily work for your beautiful, fuzzy facial expressions.

Can African Violets Grow Anywhere Outside?

Of course – Tanzania!

It may seem extreme, but we can’t stress it enough: there are very few places where African Violets can survive outdoors. That’s because most tropical environments are too hot and most temperate regions are too dry and cool.

African violets thrive best at daytime temperatures between 22 and 35 °C and nighttime temperatures between 18 and 22 °C. They cannot tolerate prolonged periods outside these ranges, making them better suited to the comfortable temperatures of your home.

Your African violet also needs protection from the sun’s rays. Their delicate foliage will burn permanently in direct sunlight or if exposed to the sun while wet. Finally, your plant needs high humidity, which is much easier to provide indoors.

While some pleasant regions with high humidity are more favorable than, for example, the Arctic Circle, remember that this is a risk.

Can African violets be grown part-time outside?

Most debate in the plant community revolves around whether African violets can be grown outdoors part-time. Some gardeners swear that their plants thrive outside during the day or in warm weather. We’ll leave the final decision to you, but here’s what you need to know:

Day trips: If you want to give your plant some fresh air on a warm summer’s day, make sure it’s out of direct sunlight and bring it back inside before temperatures drop below 20°C.

Showering Outdoors: As a rule of thumb, African violet leaves hate getting wet. Still, some gardeners like to put theirs outside during light rain to freshen the soil and clean the foliage. If you try this, get it back inside before the sun comes out! If not, you’re almost guaranteed to end up with leaf burn.

Pests: Even if you can provide the right conditions, pests are a serious risk – there are simply more of them outdoors! If you’re committed and determined to bring your plant outside for a while: keep your plant off the ground, examine it closely for invaders, and keep it separate from other plants when you bring it back indoors.

There you have it! Everything you need to know about growing African violets outdoors – or we suggest keeping them indoors!

Do you have your own answer to the question “Will African violets grow outside?” Keep the debate alive – and growing happily – in the comments below!

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Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned grower, the African Violet Resource Center has everything you need to keep your plant growing vibrant and strong. Explore our other items, visit our online store and connect with other houseplant lovers in our Facebook group to learn everything you need to know about this rewarding hobby!

More African Violet resources

African Violets With Drooping Leaves: 3 Common Causes (And Remedies!)

African Violet Plant Care: Do This, Not That!

African Violet Colors: Perfect pairings for every mood

Endless Summer: How to Grow a BLOOMING African Violet Garden

Exposure to low temperatures causes African violet leaves to sag, although plants may not show the effects immediately. African violets grow best in temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Missouri Botanical Garden. Below 60 F, flowering stops and plant growth slows, but lower temperatures can cause plants to wilt. It can take up to 36 hours for the effects of excessive exposure to cold to show. So by the time you notice the symptoms, it may already be too late to save the plant.

Why are the leaves of my African Violet plants becoming soft, limp, or mushy?

There are a number of reasons why your African violet leaves may become soft, limp, or mushy.

If your African violet plant has been overwatered, the soil will retain too much water.

This water retention causes the leaves and/or petioles to become soft, limp, or mushy.

If your plant has been overwatered, the roots can develop root rot (to learn more about root rot, read the article “Root Rot on African Violet Plants”).

The roots absorb so much water that they can no longer hold as much water and eventually rot.

This causes the leaves to become soft, limp, or mushy. After root rot, the crown begins to rot and the African violet plant eventually dies.

If your soil isn’t overwatered and your plant still has soft, limp, or mushy leaves, the leaf may have become stale, which is a natural process for African violets.

What to do when your African violet leaves have become soft, limp, or mushy from overwatering?

If you have soft, limp, or mushy leaves due to overwatering, stop watering the plant first.

Then carefully remove the soft, limp or mushy leaves and gently remove the plant from the pot.

Carefully remove the old soil, not too much soil as the African violet plant likes to be root bound.

Check if many roots are mushy or brown. If few and most of the roots look healthy (as seen below) then that’s good, that means root rot is not the cause of your leaf browning.

However, if you see a large number of roots that are mushy or brown in color (as seen below), then root rot may be the cause of the soft, limp, or mushy leaves on your violet.

Try to gently cut off any roots that are rotten or mushy and brown in color.

For more information on root rot, see the article Root Rot in African Violet Plants.

Then repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.

Don’t water for at least a week, and then start the watering schedule slowly.

If your African violet plant doesn’t recover, root rot may have already taken over most of the plant’s roots.

Root rot soon spreads to the crown and other leaves turn brown/mushy.

The African violet plant will die within a week.

Shed leaves at this time to maintain plant diversity and produce baby plants. See the article “Propagating Violet Leaves: How to Produce Baby Plants?” for more information.

How to prevent African violet leaves from becoming soft, limp or mushy due to overwatering?

Initially, only water your African violet plants when they need to be watered.

As a rule of thumb, it is better to underwater an African violet than to overwater it.

Too dense Usambara soil will keep water in the pot for a long time, which can lead to root rot.

A lighter African Violet soil mix can allow water to flow/drain easily through the pot and prevent a dense, moist soil.

African violet soil mix should be porous and provide adequate drainage. This can be accomplished by adding a layer of perlite to the bottom of the pot and mixing perlite into the potting soil.

Always remember to use room temperature or lukewarm water.

To check for dry soil, gently poke your finger into the soil (1/2 inch deep).

If a lot of soil sticks to your finger and feels damp to the touch, watering is not necessary.

However, if your finger is clean and there are only a few dry spots stuck to your finger, then it’s time to water the African violet.

Why do we need to remove the soft, limp, or mushy leaves of the African violet plant?

To maintain a healthy plant, it’s important to remove any soft, limp, mushy leaves on the African violet plant as soon as they develop.

Once the leaves become soft, limp, or mushy, they won’t become firm, green, and healthy again.

However, if left unchecked, it can lead to the more rapid spread of pre-existing diseases or the development of root rot.

What do soft, limp, or mushy African violet leaves look like?

Below are pictures of soft, limp, or mushy African violet leaves:

If your soil is soggy and wet accompanied by brown/yellowing, soft, mushy and limp leaves, then you have overwatered your African violet plant.

If your watering schedule is in order, it may be time to take care of your African violet.

When you first examine your African violet plant, remove the wilted, dried, shriveled, limp, or dead leaves.

Also remove browned and/or damaged leaves.

Regular care of the African violet is necessary to maintain a healthy plant.

For more information on care, see the How to Care for African Violet Plants article.

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African violets are beautiful flowering houseplants native to Africa.

They are popular houseplants because they are relatively easy to care for and bloom frequently.

Growing African violets is a rewarding experience, but it requires some basic knowledge of plant care.

One of the most important aspects of caring for African violets is watering.

This article will tell you how often you should water African violets and give tips on the best way to water them.

How often to water African violets

African violets are generally easy to care for, but need some attention to thrive.

One of the most important things to consider when caring for African violets is how often you need to water them.

Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes made with this type of plant, so it’s important to be careful.

In general, African violets will need watering about once a week, although this can vary depending on climate and potting mix.

If you live in a warm climate, you may need to water your plants more often.

Conversely, if you live in a cooler climate, you may only need to water them every two weeks.

The best way to determine how often to water your African violets is to poke your finger in the potting soil.

When the mixture is dry, it’s time to water the plant.

If the mixture is still damp, wait a few days and check again.

How often to water African violets indoors

When growing African violets indoors, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, the temperature and humidity of your home affect how often you need to water your plants.

If your home is particularly warm or dry, you may need to water your African violets more often.

Second, the type of potting soil you use can also affect how often you need to water.

Pot mixes for African violets tend to be drier, so they may not need to be watered as often.

Conversely, potting soil for other plant species may need to be watered more frequently.

In general, African violets should be watered about once a week.

However, as with all plants, it’s best to check the potting soil before watering to make sure the plant needs it.

A good rule of thumb is to water African violets when the potting soil feels dry.

How often to water African violets outdoors

When growing African violets outdoors, there are a few things to keep in mind.

The amount of water they need is determined by the climate and weather.

If you live in an area with high humidity, you may need to water them more often.

If you live in an area with low humidity, you may need to water them less often.

You should also be aware of the amount of rainfall in your area.

If it rains a lot, you don’t have to water them as often.

If it doesn’t rain much, you’ll need to water them more often.

In general, you should water them when the soil feels dry.

Water them thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.

The best way to determine how often to water your African violets is to check the soil.

Stick your finger in the soil and when it feels dry it’s time to water it.

If the soil is still damp, you don’t need to water it yet.

Water African violets in the morning to allow the leaves to dry before dark. This will help prevent fungal diseases.

Here are some general guidelines for watering African violets outdoors:

If you live in a high humidity climate, water your plants every 5-7 days.

If you live in a low humidity climate, water your plants every 3-5 days.

If you live in a hot climate, water your plants every 2-3 days.

If you live in a cold climate, water your plants every 7-10 days.

Remember these are general guidelines only.

Depending on the conditions in your area, your specific plants may need more or less frequent watering.

How often to water African violets in the summer

African violets need more frequent watering during the summer months.

The heat and dryness of the air can cause the soil to dry out quickly.

You should water your plants every 5-7 days during the summer.

If you live in a hot climate you may need to water them every 2-3 days.

Keep an eye on the soil and water when the potting soil feels dry.

How often to water African violets in winter

African violets need less watering during the winter months.

The cooler temperatures and higher humidity mean that the soil retains moisture longer.

You should water your plants every 7-10 days during the winter.

If you live in a cold climate you may need to water them every 2 weeks.

Keep an eye on the soil and water when the potting soil feels dry.

Be careful not to overwater your plants in winter.

Too much water can cause the leaves to rot.

How often to water African violets during flowering

African violets need to be watered more often when they are in bloom.

The flowers need a lot of moisture to open and stay healthy.

You should water your plants every 3-5 days during flowering.

Keep an eye on the soil and water when the potting soil feels dry.

How often should you water African violets from below

Top watering is the more traditional method and is perfectly fine for African violets

However, African violet plants can be top or bottom watered.

The benefit of sub-irrigation is that the water reaches the roots directly, promoting healthy growth.

It also prevents waterlogging and keeps the leaves dry, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Water your African violet plants from below by placing them in a saucer or tray filled with water.

Let the plant soak for 10-15 minutes, then remove and drain.

Soil watering should be done once a week or when the top inches of soil feel dry.

Top watering is the more traditional method and is perfectly fine for African violets.

The main benefit of overhead watering is that it makes it easier to see if the plant is getting enough water.

If you are unsure of how much water your African violet plant needs, start by watering once a week and increase as needed.

To water from above, use a watering can or mug to pour water onto the soil until it is evenly moistened.

Be careful not to get water on the leaves as this can cause rot.

Both watering methods have their advantages, so feel free to experiment and find out which works best for you and your African violets.

The most important thing is to keep an eye on the soil moisture and adjust it if necessary.

Water your African violets when the top inch of soil feels dry, or about once a week.

How to know when to water African violets

One of the most common questions new African Violet owners have is, “How do I know when to water my plant?”

The answer is simple: just feel the ground.

Stick your finger in the potting soil and see how wet or dry it feels.

When it feels dry, it’s time to water.

If it’s wet or muddy, the plant doesn’t need any more water.

You can also use a moisture meter to check soil moisture.

Insert the probe into the potting soil and check the reading.

When it reads “dry,” it’s time to water.

If it says “moist” or “wet”, the plant no longer needs water.

It’s also important to determine if your African violet plant is getting too much or too little water.

This will help you make the necessary adjustments to your watering schedule.

What do submerged African violets look like?

If you’re wondering how often to water African violets, it’s important to know what signs to look for that your plant is thirsty.

Otherwise, you may over- or under-water your violet without realizing it!

Here are some common symptoms of a submerged African violet:

The leaves feel dry and crunchy

The leaves have started to turn brown or yellow

The leaves hang down

The plant withers

Flowers are few and far between

The ground is dry and brittle

If you see any of these signs, it’s time to give your African Violet something to drink.

What do overwatered African violets look like?

It’s just as important to know the signs of an overwatered African Violet as an underwatered one.

Overwatering your plant can cause serious damage that may be difficult to recover from.

Here are some common symptoms of an overwatered African violet:

The leaves are limp and mushy

The leaves turn brown or yellow

Mold grows on the ground or on the leaves

Black or brown spots on the leaves

The trunk is soft or rotten

The ground is damp

If you see any of these signs, it’s time to cut back on watering and let the soil dry out before watering again.

How much water do African violets need

Now that you know the signs of an underwatered or overwatered African violet, you might be wondering how much water your plant needs.

The amount of water your violet needs depends on a few factors, such as the size of the pot, the type of potting soil, and the climate.

African violets need about 1-2 inches of water per week.

If you are unsure of how much water your plant needs, it is best to start at the low end and increase as needed.

An easy way to water African violets is to use a watering can or mug to pour water over the soil until it is evenly moistened.

Be careful not to get water on the leaves as this can cause rot.

Another method is to irrigate African violets with groundwater.

Place the pot in a sink or bowl of water and let the water soak up the bottom.

Be sure to remove the pot from the water once the soil is moistened.

This method is ideal for African violets that are prone to rot or have delicate leaves.

Whichever method you choose, be sure to drain off the excess water before returning the plant to its pot.

You can also place a layer of pebbles at the bottom of the African violet pot to aid in drainage.

How Long Can African Violets Go Without Water?

If you’re going on vacation or otherwise away from home, you might be wondering how long African violets can go without water.

The good news is that these plants are relatively drought tolerant and can go several weeks without water.

African violets can go without water for a maximum of 4-6 weeks.

To help your plant survive that long without water, you can try a few different methods.

One method is to water the plant thoroughly before leaving, then place it in a cool, dry spot with bright, indirect sunlight. Add a layer of mulch to the soil to retain moisture.

Another method is to place the plant in a self-watering pot.

These pots have a water reservoir that slowly releases moisture to the soil when needed.

This is an excellent option if you are away for a long period of time.

Be sure to check your African violet when you return to make sure it’s staying safe and sound.

Final Thoughts

Watering African violets properly is essential to keeping these beautiful plants healthy and happy.

Be sure to water them deeply but not too often, and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

If you are unsure of how much water your plant needs, it is always better to under-water rather than over-water.

With care and attention, you can keep your African violet thriving for years.

While trying to decide what to blog about, I looked out my family room window and saw some of my violets still in bloom, not as many as December through January. The leaves, which were few by the end of October, are growing as most of the violets die off.

Some of you may know these plants by their many common names, the botanical name is Viola odorata. Some of their common names are garden, sweet, wood violet, and of course common.

A few years ago, I brought home a very small container of violets from my parents’ house to commemorate their vacaville garden. At that time it was the “plants to grow”. Almost every garden had them. So this little container came with me to Fairfield. I didn’t know much about gardening at the time (I’m still learning, new things every day), but I soon learned that it didn’t take long for them to go from the small container to a small piece of soil. Now they’re everywhere, growing in cracks in the cement and cleaning up on the other side of the yard from where they started. YES, they are invasive, once they move in they don’t leave no matter how you try. You think you’ve removed them all, then turn around, you know what, they’re back.

But they have a good side. In winter most of the leaves die off and the purple violets bloom. This is how they bring some color into play on a cold winter’s day. In summer they may have a few scattered violets, but not many, then they mostly leave.

Oh yes, I took some to the garden they came from so my granddaughter and her husband can now enjoy plants from her great grandparents’ garden.

Marcy Sousa

What grows on

African violets are a popular houseplant that can brighten up your home when not much else is blooming. I know people who have managed to grow beautiful African violets without much effort… I’m not one of those people. No matter how hard I try, I can never get my violets to flower again and they eventually die. I’ve been researching how to successfully care for my new plant and decided to share these tips with you so you can keep your plant happy, healthy and thriving.

African violets were first discovered and documented in Tanzania. African violets come in many colors including pink, blue, purple, white, and organic color blooms. There are single and double varieties with smooth, ruffled, or ruffled petals. The leaves can be green to bronze or pink to white. Miniature and trailing grades are also available. Despite the name, African violets are neither true violets nor related to them. African violets come from the plant family Gesneriaceae, while true violets (Viola) come from Violaceae.

floor

The first step is using the right soil. The soil you use should be well draining. Well-drained soil prevents plants from sitting in very wet soil and eventually suffering from crown or root rot. Commercially made soil mixes are available for African violets, but good potting soil works well too.

Pot

Grow your violet in a pot smaller than the spread of the leaves. Many growers find that violets bloom best when the diameter of the plant is three times the diameter of the pot. It is good practice to transplant your violet once a year.

light

African violets prefer bright, indirect light. This is often sourced in windows that face north or east. Windows that receive morning sun and less direct afternoon light are the best windows. Watch your violet to see how it reacts to the light. When the leaves develop long stems and reach up, she desires brighter light. If the leaves change color, the light is probably too intense.

water

One of the biggest mistakes when growing African violets is overwatering. Signs of overwatering may resemble wilted leaves, but don’t water if the soil is still damp.

African violets are very susceptible to crown and root rot, which can occur if the soil is too wet.

To water violets from above, pour room temperature water at the top of the pot (under the leaves), rotating the pot as you water. Pour enough water to run through and drain into a saucer at the bottom of the pot. Wait 10-30 minutes and empty the saucer. To pour from below, fill a saucer with room temperature water and let the violet sit in the water for up to 30 minutes while the water absorbs. Drain off the excess water. Never let the foliage get wet. Water on foliage can cause dieback, leaf spot, and other problems. They should only need watering every 7 to 10 days or when they feel dry to the touch.

temperature and humidity

The optimal temperature is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If you grow them in a window and it gets too cool in the winter, it can cause leaf damage resembling soft, mushy leaves. In this case, remove damaged leaves and remove them from a cool place. A humidity level of 40-60% will help them thrive. You can group plants to conserve moisture or place plants on trays of pebbles and water.

Fertilize

Fertilize your violet when you want it to thrive and bloom well. A balanced fertilizer for houseplants works well. There are commercial fertilizers that contain everything African violets need. Avoid over-fertilizing.

dead head

If you are successful in getting your African violet to bloom, be sure to pinch or kill faded blooms. This allows the plant to continue putting energy into producing more buds/flowers and beautiful foliage.

pests and diseases

African violets have a few pests, including several species of mealybugs, thrips, and cyclamen. They are also susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot.

A great resource I found online was the African Violet Society of America, www.avsa.org. Now that you have learned some tips on growing African violets, I hope you will try them.

If you have questions about gardening, contact the Master Gardeners at (209) 953-6112 or visit our website at ucanr.edu/sjmg.

African violets

The African violet is probably the most popular flowering houseplant of all time. They are small, easy to grow, bloom frequently, come in an amazing array of colors, are easy to propagate and available any time of the year.

primary care

Ideally TEMPERATURES should be 65-70ºF at night, slightly warmer during the day. If temperatures are too low, leaves will droop and curl, or the plant may collapse entirely. Excessive heat can result in thin, spindly growth, dry, shriveled leaves, or, in turn, plant collapse.

African violets like direct morning or late afternoon sunlight, very bright indirect LIGHT, or fluorescent or growing lights. Avoid direct midday sun, which can cause brown spots on the leaves. Too high light levels can result in overly compact growth, while lower light levels will cause plants to grow very long petioles and grow upright rather than flat and rounded. Rotate plants 1/4 turn weekly to maintain symmetrical growth (not necessary if the light source is directly overhead). Fluorescent and grow lights should be no more than 18 inches above the plant, lower when growing miniatures.

Apply room temperature WATER when surface soil feels dry. Most violet growers prefer it

groundwater; However, top watering is fine if you are careful to avoid cool water on the leaves. Always make sure the leaves are dry before exposing them to direct sunlight. Soil watering works best when done with wicking or with a “self-watering” pot. If you choose to place the pot in a saucer of water, discard any water that isn’t drawn into the root ball within 15 to 30 minutes.

Regardless of whether you use upstream or downstream, you should occasionally leach the soil by running water through it for several minutes – this will remove any salts that may have accumulated from tap water or fertilizers. Excessive watering is the most common way people kill their African violets. Leaf or flower loss, limp plants, and crown and stem rot are all consequences of overwatering. Inadequate watering will cause roots to shrink and die, the plant will lose vigor and color, and then collapse.

African violets tolerate average indoor humidity; 40-60% is optimal. If your house is very dry, lightly mist your violets with room temperature water daily, but never late in the day or at night. Another way to counteract dry air is to place your violets on a tray filled with pebbles and keep the water in the tray at a level just below the surface of the pebbles.

Apply a diluted balanced FERTILIZER every time you water. Most African violets are grown without soil

potting mixes and need constant feeding. Unless the fertilizer is specifically formulated for use with every watering, be sure to dilute the fertilizer more than the amount recommended on the label (1/4 strength is usually sufficient). Violets do not flower well without regular fertilization. Too much fertilizer can burn the plant and cause brown tips and leaf edges. Most purple fertilizers are formulated to be high in phosphorus (P), the middle of the three numbers on the label (e.g. 15-30-15).

CARE your African violets by removing wilted flowers and dead leaves. Wash leaves occasionally with slightly warm water, pat dry. Violets have hairy leaves that collect dust. A soft brush can be used to keep the sheets clean between baths. Removing saplings—saplings—keeps the symmetrical shape of your violets.

Check regularly for PESTS and DISEASES. African violets are susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungus that

looks like fine white talcum powder on leaves and flowers. Good air circulation around the plants can help prevent this problem. Mealybug and thrips are two insects that commonly attack violets. Mealybug appears as white, cotton-like patches on leaves (top or bottom) and stems. Thrips signal their presence by causing brown fringes on flowers, distorted leaves, and pollen marks on petals. Isolate affected plants and treat as needed. Proper care for your violets will result in healthy plants that are less susceptible to pests and diseases.

DISSEMINATION is usually by leaf cuttings. Remove a healthy leaf and trim its stem to about 1/2 inch.

Stick the stem into moist cuttings mix and provide higher humidity. New plants form at the base of the leaves. You can also root the leaf in water, and violets can also be grown from seed.

maintenance

Repot your violet once or twice a year to maintain its appearance and provide fresh growing medium. As African violets grow, they shed the older, lower leaves. This process causes a bare stalk to form – known as a “neck” – which is unsightly and makes the plant more susceptible to disease. Repotting allows you to retain the attractive, rosette-like growth habit that a newly purchased violet has.

If your violet hasn’t developed a very long neck, remove it from the pot and cut a disk of soil from the bottom of the root ball about the length of the neck. Put the plant back in its pot and add fresh medium on top of the root ball, covering the bare neck. new roots

will grow into the medium from the neck.

For a plant that has grown a long, curving neck, it is best to prune it

the stem and root the leafy part of the plant. This short stem can then be pushed into fresh potting soil where it will grow a new root system. Keep the potting medium moist but not soggy until new growth signals the development of healthy new roots. NOTE that drooping violets do not maintain a symmetrical rosette shape and are allowed to suckle and twine freely. If a pendant loses too many leaves and becomes unattractive, it can be pruned and new plants grown from the stem cuttings. Dwarf violets tend to be free suckers and are still attractive when allowed to spread out in the pot.

Don’t overpot your violets. Standard African violets are happy in a 4 inch diameter pot, with regular ones

Repot to control neck length. Miniature violets do best in a 3-inch pot. Violets need to be lightly tied into the pot in order to bloom. Repotting during bud or bloom can cause flowers to drop or fade quickly, as even careful transplanting puts stress on the root system.

Related Articles

Whether you’re just starting out, waiting or troubleshooting, you’ll find advice and answers for all your gardening needs right here.

Question: I’m planning to take a two-month vacation this summer and would like some ideas on what would keep my violets alive that long. You will not be taken care of during my absence.

Answer: Although there might be a better idea, here’s what we would do. Out of necessity, we’ve done this with parts of our collection in the past (before it became a business and we paid for “babysitters”). Repot your violets first, removing all but the center and perhaps the first row of leaves. Remove all buds and flowers. The idea here is not to leave anything on the plant (leaves or flowers) that needs pruning or removal while you’re away since you won’t be around to take care of the maintenance.

You also need to keep the soil from drying out while you’re away. One solution would be to water the plants with a wick, making sure there is enough water in the reservoir to last until you return. Another option is to place the plants in a clear, covered container, such as a B. in a “sweater box” made of plastic. Since this prevents evaporation, the plants should remain moist for quite a while. Be sure to leave enough space in the container for the plants to grow. This works very well with miniatures or very young plants. Make sure the plants are well manicured and debudded to prevent anything from rotting.

Keep the plants in their usual bright growing area. Put lights on lamp timers that turn them on and off at regular intervals. Avoid leaving them in windows as natural light cannot be controlled while you are away. If all goes well, your violets should be thriving. In fact, after repotting and debudding, you could come home to a spectacular display of color!

African violets are beautiful flowering houseplants native to Africa.

They are popular houseplants because they are relatively easy to care for and bloom frequently.

Growing African violets is a rewarding experience, but it requires some basic knowledge of plant care.

One of the most important aspects of caring for African violets is watering.

This article will tell you how often you should water African violets and give tips on the best way to water them.

How often to water African violets

African violets are generally easy to care for, but need some attention to thrive.

One of the most important things to consider when caring for African violets is how often you need to water them.

Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes made with this type of plant, so it’s important to be careful.

In general, African violets will need watering about once a week, although this can vary depending on climate and potting mix.

If you live in a warm climate, you may need to water your plants more often.

Conversely, if you live in a cooler climate, you may only need to water them every two weeks.

The best way to determine how often to water your African violets is to poke your finger in the potting soil.

When the mixture is dry, it’s time to water the plant.

If the mixture is still damp, wait a few days and check again.

How often to water African violets indoors

When growing African violets indoors, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, the temperature and humidity of your home affect how often you need to water your plants.

If your home is particularly warm or dry, you may need to water your African violets more often.

Second, the type of potting soil you use can also affect how often you need to water.

Pot mixes for African violets tend to be drier, so they may not need to be watered as often.

Conversely, potting soil for other plant species may need to be watered more frequently.

In general, African violets should be watered about once a week.

However, as with all plants, it’s best to check the potting soil before watering to make sure the plant needs it.

A good rule of thumb is to water African violets when the potting soil feels dry.

How often to water African violets outdoors

When growing African violets outdoors, there are a few things to keep in mind.

The amount of water they need is determined by the climate and weather.

If you live in an area with high humidity, you may need to water them more often.

If you live in an area with low humidity, you may need to water them less often.

You should also be aware of the amount of rainfall in your area.

If it rains a lot, you don’t have to water them as often.

If it doesn’t rain much, you’ll need to water them more often.

In general, you should water them when the soil feels dry.

Water them thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.

The best way to determine how often to water your African violets is to check the soil.

Stick your finger in the soil and when it feels dry it’s time to water it.

If the soil is still damp, you don’t need to water it yet.

Water African violets in the morning to allow the leaves to dry before dark. This will help prevent fungal diseases.

Here are some general guidelines for watering African violets outdoors:

If you live in a high humidity climate, water your plants every 5-7 days.

If you live in a low humidity climate, water your plants every 3-5 days.

If you live in a hot climate, water your plants every 2-3 days.

If you live in a cold climate, water your plants every 7-10 days.

Remember these are general guidelines only.

Depending on the conditions in your area, your specific plants may need more or less frequent watering.

How often to water African violets in the summer

African violets need more frequent watering during the summer months.

The heat and dryness of the air can cause the soil to dry out quickly.

You should water your plants every 5-7 days during the summer.

If you live in a hot climate you may need to water them every 2-3 days.

Keep an eye on the soil and water when the potting soil feels dry.

How often to water African violets in winter

African violets need less watering during the winter months.

The cooler temperatures and higher humidity mean that the soil retains moisture longer.

You should water your plants every 7-10 days during the winter.

If you live in a cold climate you may need to water them every 2 weeks.

Keep an eye on the soil and water when the potting soil feels dry.

Be careful not to overwater your plants in winter.

Too much water can cause the leaves to rot.

How often to water African violets during flowering

African violets need to be watered more often when they are in bloom.

The flowers need a lot of moisture to open and stay healthy.

You should water your plants every 3-5 days during flowering.

Keep an eye on the soil and water when the potting soil feels dry.

How often should you water African violets from below

Top watering is the more traditional method and is perfectly fine for African violets

However, African violet plants can be top or bottom watered.

The benefit of sub-irrigation is that the water reaches the roots directly, promoting healthy growth.

It also prevents waterlogging and keeps the leaves dry, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Water your African violet plants from below by placing them in a saucer or tray filled with water.

Let the plant soak for 10-15 minutes, then remove and drain.

Soil watering should be done once a week or when the top inches of soil feel dry.

Top watering is the more traditional method and is perfectly fine for African violets.

The main benefit of overhead watering is that it makes it easier to see if the plant is getting enough water.

If you are unsure of how much water your African violet plant needs, start by watering once a week and increase as needed.

To water from above, use a watering can or mug to pour water onto the soil until it is evenly moistened.

Be careful not to get water on the leaves as this can cause rot.

Both watering methods have their advantages, so feel free to experiment and find out which works best for you and your African violets.

The most important thing is to keep an eye on the soil moisture and adjust it if necessary.

Water your African violets when the top inch of soil feels dry, or about once a week.

How to know when to water African violets

One of the most common questions new African Violet owners have is, “How do I know when to water my plant?”

The answer is simple: just feel the ground.

Stick your finger in the potting soil and see how wet or dry it feels.

When it feels dry, it’s time to water.

If it’s wet or muddy, the plant doesn’t need any more water.

You can also use a moisture meter to check soil moisture.

Insert the probe into the potting soil and check the reading.

When it reads “dry,” it’s time to water.

If it says “moist” or “wet”, the plant no longer needs water.

It’s also important to determine if your African violet plant is getting too much or too little water.

This will help you make the necessary adjustments to your watering schedule.

What do submerged African violets look like?

If you’re wondering how often to water African violets, it’s important to know what signs to look for that your plant is thirsty.

Otherwise, you may over- or under-water your violet without realizing it!

Here are some common symptoms of a submerged African violet:

The leaves feel dry and crunchy

The leaves have started to turn brown or yellow

The leaves hang down

The plant withers

Flowers are few and far between

The ground is dry and brittle

If you see any of these signs, it’s time to give your African Violet something to drink.

What do overwatered African violets look like?

It’s just as important to know the signs of an overwatered African Violet as an underwatered one.

Overwatering your plant can cause serious damage that may be difficult to recover from.

Here are some common symptoms of an overwatered African violet:

The leaves are limp and mushy

The leaves turn brown or yellow

Mold grows on the ground or on the leaves

Black or brown spots on the leaves

The trunk is soft or rotten

The ground is damp

If you see any of these signs, it’s time to cut back on watering and let the soil dry out before watering again.

How much water do African violets need

Now that you know the signs of an underwatered or overwatered African violet, you might be wondering how much water your plant needs.

The amount of water your violet needs depends on a few factors, such as the size of the pot, the type of potting soil, and the climate.

African violets need about 1-2 inches of water per week.

If you are unsure of how much water your plant needs, it is best to start at the low end and increase as needed.

An easy way to water African violets is to use a watering can or mug to pour water over the soil until it is evenly moistened.

Be careful not to get water on the leaves as this can cause rot.

Another method is to irrigate African violets with groundwater.

Place the pot in a sink or bowl of water and let the water soak up the bottom.

Be sure to remove the pot from the water once the soil is moistened.

This method is ideal for African violets that are prone to rot or have delicate leaves.

Whichever method you choose, be sure to drain off the excess water before returning the plant to its pot.

You can also place a layer of pebbles at the bottom of the African violet pot to aid in drainage.

How Long Can African Violets Go Without Water?

If you’re going on vacation or otherwise away from home, you might be wondering how long African violets can go without water.

The good news is that these plants are relatively drought tolerant and can go several weeks without water.

African violets can go without water for a maximum of 4-6 weeks.

To help your plant survive that long without water, you can try a few different methods.

One method is to water the plant thoroughly before leaving, then place it in a cool, dry spot with bright, indirect sunlight. Add a layer of mulch to the soil to retain moisture.

Another method is to place the plant in a self-watering pot.

These pots have a water reservoir that slowly releases moisture to the soil when needed.

This is an excellent option if you are away for a long period of time.

Be sure to check your African violet when you return to make sure it’s staying safe and sound.

Final Thoughts

Watering African violets properly is essential to keeping these beautiful plants healthy and happy.

Be sure to water them deeply but not too often, and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

If you are unsure of how much water your plant needs, it is always better to under-water rather than over-water.

With care and attention, you can keep your African violet thriving for years.

While trying to decide what to blog about, I looked out my family room window and saw some of my violets still in bloom, not as many as December through January. The leaves, which were few by the end of October, are growing as most of the violets die off.

Some of you may know these plants by their many common names, the botanical name is Viola odorata. Some of their common names are garden, sweet, wood violet, and of course common.

A few years ago, I brought home a very small container of violets from my parents’ house to commemorate their vacaville garden. At that time it was the “plants to grow”. Almost every garden had them. So this little container came with me to Fairfield. I didn’t know much about gardening at the time (I’m still learning, new things every day), but I soon learned that it didn’t take long for them to go from the small container to a small piece of soil. Now they’re everywhere, growing in cracks in the cement and cleaning up on the other side of the yard from where they started. YES, they are invasive, once they move in they don’t leave no matter how you try. You think you’ve removed them all, then turn around, you know what, they’re back.

But they have a good side. In winter most of the leaves die off and the purple violets bloom. This is how they bring some color into play on a cold winter’s day. In summer they may have a few scattered violets, but not many, then they mostly leave.

Oh yes, I took some to the garden they came from so my granddaughter and her husband can now enjoy plants from her great grandparents’ garden.

African violets are popular houseplants because they thrive and bloom profusely in the conditions that most homes provide. Since African violets are considered a great houseplant by almost everyone, it can be frustrating when your African violets don’t flower.

Because if African violets are meant to be so easy, why aren’t yours blooming? You’re not alone if you’re having trouble getting your African violets to bloom. Although they are considered low-maintenance plants, they must meet some specific conditions in order to flower.

Fortunately, all of these conditions are easy to implement. It may take some time, but if you create the right conditions for your African violet, it will start blooming again. Here are the most common reasons why your African violet isn’t blooming and what to do to fix those problems.

Reason 1: The African violet gets too little sunlight.

Lack of sunlight is the most common reason African violets don’t flower. If your African violet isn’t blooming, check each day that it’s getting enough sunlight before attempting to fix anything else. African violets need at least 8 hours of sunlight a day to flower; They’re even happier when they get 12 hours of sunlight a day.

In the winter, it can be difficult to find a spot in your home that gets at least 8 hours of sunlight, depending on how many hours of daylight your area gets. African violets need bright sunlight, but direct sunlight can be too strong and burn your African violet’s leaves. The position that was best for your African violet in the summer may not work when the season changes.

In my home, the African violets that usually stand in my kitchen are relocated to the African violets in the living room window in the winter. As a result, they bloom almost all year round.

You can either move your African violet to a new location where it will receive more sunlight, or you can supplement the amount of light by using grow lights or fluorescent lights. If you use artificial lights, do not leave the lights on more than 16 hours a day. African violets need 8 hours of darkness each day to produce healthy buds.

Reason 2: The African violet suffers from overwatering or underwatering.

Another problem with indoor plants is watering them properly. It’s more common for houseplant owners to damage their plants by overwatering, but underwatering can also happen. Both of these problems can disrupt the African violet’s flowering cycle.

Overwatering leads to root rot, while underwatering also leads to root death. In either case, damage to the roots can prevent your African violet from flowering.

African Violets are a bit like Goldilocks because they want their watering to be “just right.” African violets need to be watered often enough so that their soil dries out just a little between waterings, but they don’t like sitting in a pool of water all the time.

The best way to ensure your African violet is getting enough water is to check the soil every few days. When the soil surface feels dry, it’s time to water. Soil watering is a good idea for African violets. As a result, the soil can only absorb as much water as it can absorb. I find that bottom watering works well because African violet soil is slow to absorb water when I water from the top. When I water from above, the water just runs right out of the drainage holes and doesn’t let the roots get moisture as well as with bottom watering.

Reason 3: The African violet is fertilized incorrectly.

Another reason your African violets aren’t blooming can be improper use of fertilizer. This can be one of two things: either you are not fertilizing your African violet, or you are using a fertilizer that encourages foliage growth at the expense of the flowers.

We start with the first edition. African violets may need fertilizing to get the nutrients they need to bloom. Since African violets are usually planted in small pots, they sometimes quickly use up all available nutrients. Keep in mind that indoor plants have access to much less soil than outdoor plants.

If you’ve recently repotted your African violets, you may not need fertilizer, but if you’ve had your African violets in fresh soil for a while and are noticing a lack of blooms, you should use fertilizer.

The second problem encountered with fertilizer is using a fertilizer that encourages leaf growth but not buds. You can solve this problem by choosing the right fertilizer.

When choosing a fertilizer, pay attention to a balanced fertilizer. You want to use a fertilizer that has an even ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, known as the NPK ratio. If you use a fertilizer with too much nitrogen you will see foliage growth but not as much flowering.

When feeding your African Violet, start with a small amount at first. Too much fertilizer can damage the roots of the plant. You can always use larger amounts later if needed, but starting with too much fertilizer is almost impossible.

I recommend using a liquid fertilizer as these are easier to manage. Simplify the process by using liquid fertilizer when watering!

Reason 4: The pot you have the African violets in is too big.

You may think that a larger container is better for your African Violets, but they actually do better in smaller pots. If you recently repotted your African violet and it has stopped flowering, you may have put it in a pot that is too large.

Choose a pot that is about one-third the diameter of your African violet. This means that some of the leaves protrude over the edge of the pot. Although it may look odd compared to other houseplants, this arrangement works best for African violets.

When African violets have too much room in their containers, they devote most of their energy to expanding their root system; this means they put less energy into flowering.

African violets should be repotted once or twice a year. However, you shouldn’t use a larger container every time you repot. When the African violet starts to become rootbound (which means you can see the roots starting to form a tight circle around the edges of the container), consider repotting into a slightly larger container. Otherwise, simply replace the soil with fresh soil and put your African Violet back in the same container when repotting.

Reason 5: The temperature in your home is too extreme.

I know I said that African violets grow well in household conditions. However, if your home deviates greatly from average conditions, your African violets could suffer.

African violets are tropical plants, which means they like temperatures between 25 and 35 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and temperatures between 20 and 22 degrees Celsius at night. Most homes stay fairly close to these conditions, and African violets can handle some deviations from these temperatures.

However, extreme cold can stunt African violet growth, affecting flowering, and extreme heat can stress African violets and cause them to stop flowering.

Cold temperatures are usually the most common temperature problem. Most of us don’t routinely have our homes hotter than African violets can handle. Even if your house is at the right temperature, African violets can get too cold near windows in winter. Try moving your African violet away from the window at night if you suspect a drop in temperature is the problem.

Don’t worry too much about occasional temperature extremes, though. Anytime my power has been off for a day or two and the temperature inside has been very cold or very hot, I have not experienced any immediate problems with my African Violets. So it seems they only have a problem with prolonged temperature extremes.

Reason 6: The humidity in your house is too low.

Humidity is another area where most homes already fall within the range that African violets need. In their natural environment, African violets typically grow in areas with 70 to 80 percent humidity. Fortunately, the most common houseplant varieties can live in much lower humidity conditions.

African violets seem to have no problem growing in conditions where humidity is around 50%, so most homes have humidity levels close enough for African violets to be fine.

However, if the humidity in your home is significantly lower, your African violets may be affected. When the humidity is low, African violets lose more water than they take in, causing several problems for the plant, including its buds not opening.

You can solve this problem with a few different solutions. It’s easiest to group your African violets together if you have several. This creates a microclimate that can increase the humidity next to the plants by up to 15 percent. You can also place bowls of water nearby; evaporation helps increase humidity.

If these two solutions don’t work, you might want to consider a humidifier. A decent humidifier isn’t overly expensive, and besides, too dry air in your home can make you uncomfortable too.

African Violet Blossoms FAQ

Hopefully you have been able to identify the reason why your African violet is not blooming and now you know how to fix the problem. Here are a few more questions you might have about African violet flowers.

How often do African violets bloom?

African violets can bloom almost all year round. If you are able to provide the right conditions, expect your African violets to bloom 10-12 months each year. Each bloom lasts about 2-3 weeks.

What time of year do African violets bloom?

African violets can bloom year-round as long as they have the right conditions. African violets grown indoors need at least 8 hours of light per day to flower. This means you may need to supplement with artificial lighting if your African violets don’t get enough daylight during the winter. However, African violets usually flower all winter long as long as they have enough light.

Should I pinch off African violet blossoms?

There is no reason to leave African violet flowers on the plant after flowering. By removing the spent buds, the plant can put more energy into producing new buds. It also looks more attractive when there are no dead flowers left on the plant.

Join the African Violet Club!

Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned grower, the African Violet Resource Center has everything you need to keep your plant growing vibrant and strong. Explore our other items, visit our online store and connect with other houseplant lovers in our Facebook group to learn everything you need to know about this rewarding hobby!

More African Violet resources

6 Common African Violet Leaf Problems

7 Little Known Facts About African Violets

African violet potting soil pH guide

How do you propagate and grow African violets from seed?