did you know?

Although African violets are often considered old-fashioned, they were only discovered in 1892, making them relative newcomers to the houseplant world. They were named after the man who discovered them on his plantation in East Africa (legend says while taking an evening stroll with his fiance) and sent the seeds to his father in Germany.

general maintenance:

Groom plants, removing yellowed foliage and spent flowers. Over time as lower foliage is removed, plants develop an unsightly bare stem or "neck." Rejuventate plants by slicing off the bottom of the root ball equal to length of neck. Replace in pot and add soil to cover neck; new roots will develop from it. Remove suckers that develop at plant base.

pests/diseases:

Aphids, mealybugs, thrips, cyclamen and spider mites and crown rot may occur.

controls:

To control aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs, apply insecticidal soap, following label directions. Spray cyclamen mites with horticultural oil, following label directions. To control spider mites, increase humidity by misting plant with tepid water (keep leaves out of direct sun while they have water droplets on them), or set plants in a shallow, pebble-lined tray filled with water. To control crown rot, avoid watering into crown of plant.

how to sow/plant:

Start with eastablished plants or rooted leaf cuttings. Grow in pots filled with well-drained potting mix; keep crown slightly elevated. The soil level should be 1/2 to 1 inch below rim of pot to provide a water reservoir when watering. Leaf cuttings or suckers may be rooted for more plants.

water and fertilize:

Water thoroughly with tepid water when soil surface is dry to touch from either top or bottom. From top, move leaves aside and avoid watering into crown of plant. From bottom, fill plant saucer and allow plant to take up water; empty saucer after 30 minutes. Bottom watering causes fertilizer salts to build up on soil surface, so flush by top watering monthly. Feed monthly with all-purpose water-soluble fertilizer, following label directions, or weekly with fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength.

garden hint:

Fuzzy-leaved plants such as African violets accumulate dust and can be difficult to clean. Use a soft brush to remove dust from the leaves, or use an older faded leaf. Pinch it off, turn it upside down, and use it as a curry comb.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage

garden uses:

• Containers
• Indoors

other uses: