Question
Paricia:
I am a newbiw at AV's.  I have one...and I want more!  Is there anyway that you or your friends could please...please send me some 'leaves.'  I have already bought a few pots and soil to grow them...just searching for some experienced people to help me 'get off the runway' and start a nice AV collection. Got nothing to trade right now.  Please forgive me if my requestr is 'out of order'...just reaching for help.  Thanks.
Mike in Atlanta, GA

Answer
Mike,
I went back and re-read your question, and realized you are asking for some actual leaves.  I don't mind doing that, but I would worry how they might make it through the mail system.  African violets are very sensitive to heat, cold, dryness, etc.  I do have another idea.  Why don't you go into some stores or garden centers where they sell AVs and simply ask if you can take a leaf or two?  That works very well for most gardeners.  I do it all the time!!  Not with violets, but for other plants I wish to propagate.  Sometimes I don't even ask, I'll just break off a leaf if I know for certain it won't harm the plant, of course.  You are free to contact me any time for more info on growing and caring for violets.  You are very right- they are addictive.  I have more violets than any other plants.  Your enthusiasm is refreshing.  I wish you the very best.  Please let me know how you do when you obtain more violets!  Oh yes, I am giving you the web address of the African Violet Society of America.  They have a Q&A section where professional growers will answer your violet questions.  Go to www.avsa.org.
Don't forget to let me hear back from you!

PS: Do you know how to "root" a leaf?  Put it in water for several weeks and wait for small, thread-like roots to appear.  Do not let the water touch the leaf, just the stem.