Question
Why do my African Violets have long, ugly stumps growing from the pot?  I water from the bottom or use violet pots and fertilize with African Violet fertilizer.  I've noticed that a lot of leaves around the bottom of my plants die and this leaves the large stumps growing up out of the pot.  Is there a way to take care of this and what am I doig wrong with their care?

Thank you!!

Answer
I think I know what you are talking about.  You mean the actual STEM from which all the leaves originate begins sticking out of the soil.  This usually happens to plants which you have had for at least a year.  I actually think there are several causes, but the cure is easy.  Most times it comes from erosion of the soil.  The soil gets compacted after months of watering, and usually more compacted in the center.  It is very unsightly, isn't it?  I have that problem from time to time.  What I do is "top dress" my violets.  This simply means I apply more potting soil to the top of the plant, water very lightly, push it down, add more soil if needed,  then water more thoroughly.  The violet just needs more soil around the top, particularly in the center where the ugly "stem" is showing.  This also adds sturdiness to the plant, because these stems can break off if the plant is moved much.  One thing that will prevent this condition is to water slowly to prevent the water from soaking in all at the center.  You mentioned that you use violet pots.  That is great!  I use them, too.  Make it a  routine habit to water your violets from the top sometimes.  This adds air to the soil, which the violets don't get if they are in those self-watering pots.  You could do this whenever you refill the pots, making it easy to remember.  Once every few weeks or so is fine.  I certainly hope I have helped.  Good luck.  Enjoy your violets.