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The formula for success with African violets is simple: Provide the correct light exposure and a few foolproof watering techniques and you can’t fail. Let’s start with light conditions; their tender leaves prefer light from a window with eastern or northern exposure. If you have a location facing west or south, protect them from the harsh rays of the sun. Next, watering; AFRICAN VIOLETS WILL DIE FROM OVERWATERING. When excess water is not removed from the saucer, they become soggy causing their roots to decay. The best watering method is placing your violet in a self-watering container; all you have to do is keep fertilized water in the reservoir. The liquid is absorbed into the soil as the plant needs it, making oversaturating impossible.
The “old faithful” method is to place the violet in a saucer of water for about twenty minutes. Leaving the violet in the water for this short period of time will allow it to absorb a sufficient amount of moisture. Empty the remaining water from the saucer and your violet will be content for about a week.
To maintain top-notch blooming energy, feed your plants every time you water. The recommended fertilizer is one that is made specifically for African violets, or a well-balanced fertilizer such as 14-12-14. Without proper nutrition, African violets will cease to flower.
1. Violets look great in silver. Place small selections in a cream pitcher, sugar bowl or compote. The smallest violets look adorable in napkin rings at each place setting.
2. Purchase colored pots or paint your pots to complement the flower colors.
3. Place petite plants in egg cups on a windowsill.
4. If you have a small space, purchase suction cup holders and attach violets to the inside of a window.
– Do not overwater.
– Do not get water on the leaves.
– Use a self-watering pot or water your violet from the saucer, not from the soil.
– An eastern or northern window is best.
– Fertilize regularly.
– Turn your pot periodically to maintain an even growth.
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