Question
I have several african violets that have thrived the past two years. I moved them upstairs in a north facing window, the same as before. All of a sudden the leaves are turning a pale yellow. They seem healthy otherwise. They have not been repotted. I haven't done anything different that I can recall. I would appreciate any help. Thanks, Mary

Answer
Mary,

Is this window more shaded by a tree or is it a smaller window? Violets need to be in a location where the light is bright enough that your hand will cast a shdow. If not the leaves will yellow.

The amount of light that an African Violet receives is important for its health and overall performance. African Violets, like other plants, need light for photosynthesis. While photosynthesis is most often associated with a plant's green leaves and stems, its most vital function is to convert carbon, hydrogen and oxygen (in the form of carbon dioxide and water) into usable energy called plant carbohydrates. Even when all the essential nutrients are available to the plant, a complete absence of sunlight will literally result in starvation. More common, of course, is a plant which simply does not get enough sunlight. In such circumstances, an African Violets will stop flowering and its leaves begin to turn yellow. It is also likely that the African Violet, which is not getting enough sunlight, will become rangy as it develops elongated leaves and stems.

You need to increase the amount of light they are getting and the yellow will go away. Good luck.

Darlene