Question
I am moving to a basement apt. with very limited windows. How do I keep my african violets blooming?

Answer
Hello Jean,
If any of the windows in your basement apt have good eastern exposure, that is, sunlight from early morning to midday, then that would be just about perfect for your violets.  That is, of course, if you can position your plants so that they are by the window, because basement windows are usually very high up and near the ceiling.  If you do not think you have appropriate light you may need to purchase a fluorescent light fixture.  They do not have to be large and bulky, and they do not have to be costly.  I don't know how many violets you have, but generally you only need a fixture as long as your row, or rows of plants. There are three types of fluorescent bulbs:(1)Cool white; (2)warm white; and (3)full-spectrum which are also called "grow lights" because they emit almost 90% of the full light spectrum. Warm white and cool white bulbs can be combined to provide a wider spectrum, (though not full). Actually, fluoroscent light is very good for African violets because it contains more of a spectrum than other indoor lights, and can even be better than very poor sun exposures.  If you choose fluorescent lights be sure to ask for assistance in selecting your fixture and bulbs.  By the way, fluorescent lighting is the least expensive of all forms of indoor lighting.  If you need further help please feel free to contact me.