Question
Hi, I rescued a mini violet from the garbage one year ago.  It has grown to be lush and beautiful.  In fact, too lush!  It has developed two crowns, but no sign of buds or blooms.  I have fertilized only with 1/4 strength Optimara for violets.  It gets perfect light/water/humidity.  What causes a violet to develop crowns?  Also, and more importantly why no blooms?  Your opinion is appreciated.

Answer
Miniature and semi-miniature AVs develope two crowns or a sucker because of heridity. The grandfather of miniatures Saintpaulia schumensis, was discovered growing wild in Africa.  This plant developed the minis and semis we know today as well as the trailers.  Because it had a tendency to put up more crowns or suckers, it has passed this along to our present-day miniatures.

African violets need about 4 to 6 hours a day of bright light with no direct sun.  It is the light that makes flowers in addition to using 1/4 teaspoon in a gallon of water feedings every 7-10 days.  If the plant has sufficient light and regular fertilizer, it should bloom.

Have you changed the soil?  Miniatures need to have fresh soil about 3 times a year.

You should have a beautifully performing plant when all these factors are used.

Nancy