Question
My african violets (I'm quite the amateur)have become heavy with growth and they seem to be reaching "upward" instead of spreading out like african violets should.  I do fertilize wtih a Fertilome product, water soluble. Most are still blooming well, but I'm concerned with their "upward" growth....too much fertilizer, too much light, ?help
I do have my plants on a baker's rack with grow lights.
Also, do you know of sites where one can "trade" leaves or plants to add to a collection?  Any help will be greatly appreciated.  Bonnie

Answer
Bonnie,
This is a common problem.  In fact, I myself have several violets that are doing this very thing.  I have been poring over my materials, and the only thing I can find that addresses this problem simply states to cut back on the fertilizer.  You can try this for a month or so and see if it helps.  Another thing, make sure that the light is good and full.  Sometimes foliage will "reach up" as if to receive more light, however, you indicated that lighting was fine.  There are rare occurrences when violets will develop very tight, full centers, or even develop a second crown from what is usually considered 'over-exposure to light'.  It usually ends up being a combination of factors, however, such as light and  heavy fertilizer.  If you are a newbie or amateur to violets, one of the best ways to familiarize yourself thoroughly is to visit internet sites which are endorsed by the African Violet Society of America, AVSA.  If you visit the AVSA there will be links to these reputable sites.  Good luck.