Most houseplants are revered for their gorgeous, green foliage and their ability to help filter and purify the air within your home. But with African violets, their flowers steal the show. While it’s assumed that the plants typically come in shades of violet and purple, the flowers actually come in pink, red and white as well.
Thought to be somewhat finicky, they actually are fairly easy to grow if you learn the following basics on how to care for them.
1. Plant them in potting soil
African violet plants need a light, airy medium around their roots to allow for good air circulation. It’s best to buy a commercial potting soil or to make your own. Try mixing extra peat moss and vermiculite or perlite into the potting soil to make it even lighter.
2. Give them the right growing requirements
Direct sunlight will burn the velvety leaves on an African violet. They prefer bright, indirect sun from a south- or east-facing window. In winter months, it may be necessary to put your plants under a grow light to give them the exposure they need to bloom. Contrary to popular belief, they do not grow best in warm conditions. Like other houseplants, they do well at temperatures between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing them in drafty areas where the nighttime temps drop below 50-55 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Keep the soil moist
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