Question
I recently moved to. Oregon. Cloudy rainy winters.I need artificial light for my AV.I plan on using florescent light tubes.48in 40w. What combination of tube types is considered best for AV indoors?
Thank you,
Jose

Answer
Jose,
I'm not the best one to ask about lighting requirements, because I live in the southeast US, and have always relied upon windowsill lighting, which works well for me. I don't want to speculate on the different types of lights for AVs because there are so many different spectrums available, some of which very closely resemble sunlight. I always appreciate hearing from an AV grower who wants to properly care for their violets. You realize that artificial lighting is sometimes best, especially considering your climate. For this reason, I'm sending you several different links. One is for the African Violet Society of America. They are the "go to" guys for anything related to violets. They take questions free of charge, and offer lots of information. I'm also sending you the link for a website where you can purchase all types of AV products including lighting. I am NOT endorsing this particular site, but rather sending it to you for information only. I looked at their site, and feel that they offer good information in addition to a good selection of AV products. You can use their site simply for information, and purchase your lighting wherever you wish, or wherever you can get the best price. If the following sites don't help you please get back to me, and I'll research it further for you.

Either CLICK or go to the following:

Here is the African violet Society of America:  www.avsa.org

Here's the other one with lighting info:   http://www.buyafricanviolets.com/plant_lights.php


ADDENDUM TO MY PREVIOUS ANSWER:
Hi, Jose:
  After I sent your answer to you I went to the www.buyafricanviolets.com site, and found that the lighting equipment is rather costly. As I was saying in my previous answer, use this for information purposes only. Take a look at what is suggested for your plants and take that list to a Home Depot or other hardware store. You do not have to be a grower or breeder of violets to invest in proper fluorescent lighting. I have seen regular folks with 10 or less plants using 1-2 small bulbs. The good thing about fluorescent lighting is that it is cooler and uses much less electricity. If, however, you can't seem to find the info you need please email me back and I will research it further for you. I want to see your violets thrive, particularly since you have changed locations. I see too many people lose their precious violets due to lack of proper light and moisture, and AVs are plants that can last many years if properly cared for. This is one area that I suppose I'm not a true expert in- lighting! Thanks for writing, and please let me know if I can help further.