Question
My flowerless plant :(
I have been reading the posts on taking care of my African Violet. Mine is in a small sized pot, was transferred about a month ago and the flowers survived about 2 weeks before shriveling up. It survived in shade for those two weeks. I live in a dark apartment that is just now getting morning sun because of the leaves on the trees falling outside, and sun now peeking through the windows. The plant was positioned in the shade because I thought it only needed occasional indirect sunlight. I started misting the plant, and heard that banana peels in the soil help them grow. I have nice healthy green leaves but the beautiful purple flowers all died at once. How can i bring them back to life? Direct sunlight? What is this fertilizer I hear about? Can I eventually keep it in the shade again? Is it bad to position the plant near a window when winter hits?
AnswerHi Leah,
I think your main mistake is a common one. You repotted to a larger sized pot. Believe it or not, violets are the one flowering plant which will hardly ever grow unless crowded. Here's why: Going into a larger container will only serve to increase the foliage. If their roots are crowded, (as in a small pot, as it should be), their energy will go into developing blooms. I remember my grandmother had violets in the same pots for years and years, yet they still bloomed.
To answer your questions, I have never heard of banana peels in the soil of violets; roses yes. But, you can buy an reputable fertilizer at a plant store. Optimara is a good one, but I think you can only get it online. Only use fertilizer for violets. Remember to use half-strength. No, you can never keep an African violet in the shade. It will not only refuse to bloom, but may eventually shrivel up and die. Right now, with the morning winter sun is an excellent time to put it in direct light. That's where mine are. Of course, direct sun will burn the leaves in summer. Just make sure the leaves aren't jammed up against the cold glass; mine seem to do well in the window even though the glass is cold; it is the SUNSHINE they crave! If you need further help please write back. Thanks for the photo. Your foliage indeed looks very healthy. Sounds like they're a lot of trouble, huh? They are a challenge, but when they bloom and you know you promoted it, it is all worth it.
