Flowering houseplants are highly prized, and the most popular one is the African Violet (Saintpaulia). These little beauties come in a rainbow of colors and sizes. Here are some questions from readers about these plants and their care.
Q: My African Violet was full of blooms when I bought it but it hasn’t bloomed since. How come?
A: It is widely believed that AVs do well in low light. This is actually quite untrue. Like any flowering plant, they need bright light to bloom. If they are grown under grow lights, be sure to turn them off at night as they also need a period of darkness (at least seven hours) to make flower buds. If they are getting these requirements, sometimes a light shock is needed. It’s not yet known why, but firmly tapping the pot on a hard surface usually results in blooms! Finally, make sure the plant is getting proper nutrients.
Q: My AV’s are doing great but the leaves are grimy looking. How should I clean them?
A: Clean leaves are important for all houseplants as they breath through tiny openings in them. If the leaves are allowed to get dusty the plant will literally suffocate. That said, water is not recommended to clean them. Since the leaves are hairy, it will only create more of a mess. A soft artist's or cosmetic brush is the ideal tool. It will remove the dust and dirt without harming the leaves.
Q: My AVs are blooming nicely but the leaves have ugly brown patches on them. What’s wrong?
A: There are two causes of this. If the patches are light in color it means the plant is getting too much sun. AVs like bright indirect sun. Darker patches are damage from watering with cold water. Use only lukewarm water when watering AVs and try to water from the bottom whenever possible. This can be done by simply filling a glass or metal baking dish with water and sitting the pots in it for an hour or so. Remove and let drain thoroughly.
Q: My AV is falling apart! All the stems are mushy and gross and the leaves are curled. Help!
A: Unfortunately it appears that the plant has been overwatered. African Violets are highly susceptible to rotting, especially if water is allowed to sit in the crown of the plant. The rot starts from the outside and works its way into the center, or crown of the plant. There is nothing that can be done once rot has set in. Take cuttings of any healthy leaves that remain and then discard the plant. To prevent in the future make sure AVs are in light, well draining soil.
Q: The leaves of my violets look curled and distorted. What’s wrong?
A: Those are the symptoms of Cyclamen Mites. They are too tiny to see but can do tremendous damage. Unfortunately there is little that can be done once a plant is infested and discarding the plant is recommended. Be sure to check any other plants that were near the infested one as they spread quite easily.
