African violet

Description

African Violet Care Guide for Alans Garden

African Violet (Saintpaulia, now classified under Streptocarpus sect. Saintpaulia) is a compact flowering indoor plant loved for its soft fuzzy leaves and colorful blooms in purple, pink, white, blue, and bi-colors.

Light

• Best in bright indirect light.
• East window or filtered light is ideal.
• Avoid harsh direct sun, which scorches leaves.
• Too little light reduces flowering.

Watering

• Water when top soil feels slightly dry.
• Keep soil lightly moist, never soggy.
• Bottom watering is excellent.
• Avoid splashing water on leaves/crown to prevent rot and spots.

Humidity

• Prefers moderate humidity (50–60%).
• Good airflow is important.
• Avoid wet stagnant conditions.

Soil

Use light, airy mix:

• cocopeat / peat
• perlite
• vermiculite
• little compost

Temperature

• Ideal: 18°C to 28°C
• Avoid heat stress above 32°C and cold below 15°C.

Fertilizer

• Feed every 2–4 weeks with diluted flowering fertilizer or balanced fertilizer.

Pot & Placement

• Best in small shallow pots.
• Slightly rootbound plants often bloom better.
• Ideal for windowsills, desks, and indoor shelves.

Flowering Tips

• Provide steady bright light.
• Remove spent flowers regularly.
• Do not overpot.
• Feed lightly but consistently.

Propagation

• Easy from healthy leaf cuttings.

Common Problems

• Yellow leaves = overwatering
• No flowers = low light / excess pot size
• Soft crown = crown rot from water sitting in center
• Leaf spots = water on leaves under sun

Best for Alans Garden (Kerala)

Keep in cool bright indoor area with fan airflow, avoid heavy humidity buildup, and protect from direct sun and rain.

Selling Tip

Blooming indoor beauty | Compact flowering plant | Year-round blooms | Perfect gift plant