African Violet, Assorted

African violets are one of the world’s most popular houseplants and for good reason. These compact, low-growing plants flower several times a year, and they are available in a multitude of leaf forms and colors. Don’t be put off by their reputation for difficulty: providing you follow a few simple rules, African violets should thrive indoors. With a little experience, it’s possible to keep them in flower nearly all year round and grow them to the size of dinner plates. African violets will thrive in bright, warm and humid conditions. Keep water from touching their leaves or it will leave brown spots. Remove dead flowers and leaves as soon as you see them to encourage a healthier plant. Regularly check the soil and plant to make sure there is no accumulation of dead leaves. This will encourage rot. Bright, but not direct sunlight. They are commonly grown under fluorescent lights placed 12 to 15 inches above the leaves. A well-drained potting mix is essential. Poor drainage can cause root rot, in which the plant becomes waterlogged and its leaves begin to fall, so make sure that the plant is never allowed to be exposed to standing water for an extended period of time. Keep soil moist with warm water and strive for high humidity. Do not allow water to contact the leaves to prevent damage, other than light misting. Water from below, or push the water spout into the soil when watering. Don’t allow the plant to sit in water. Feed with an African violet fertilizer every other week. Though African violets are not known to be toxic, it is generally never a good idea to let a child chow down on any houseplant, as individuals may have varying sensitivities to the plant’s sap or hairy leaves. Many fuzz-covered plants are skin irritants, but African violet isn’t reported to cause rashes or other harm. By the way, African violets are non-toxic to curious cats, dogs, and horses, according to the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants page.