African violets are strictly indoor plants in North America, largely because their leaves must remain dry. Grow plants in bright, indirect light for best color and flowers. A plant standing three meters away from a west or south facing window is an ideal location. Plants will still grow when located right next to north or east facing windows, but the leaves will be thin and spindly and the plants will be less likely to flower. If you don’t have a good spot near a window, you can grow African violets under 40-watt fluorescent lights (or grow lights) hanging 12 to 15 inches above the plant.
How to Plant African Violets
African violets grow best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Miracle-Gro® Indoor Potting Mix is specially formulated to give indoor plants such as African violets just the right growing environment. For best results, plant African violets in African violet pots, which are small (4- to 5-inch) self-watering ceramic or plastic containers. Growing plants in these pots will provide the right amount of continuous moisture to the plants.
How to Water African Violets
The easiest way to make sure you give African violets the right amount of water is to grow them in the self-watering African violet pots mentioned above. These pots have an upper part where the plant grows and a bottom part (or reservoir) that holds water. Ceramic pots are usually glazed on the outside, but the bottom of the planter is unglazed so that water can easily penetrate from the reservoir. Plastic African violet pots usually have a fibrous wick that connects the planter to the reservoir. Make sure to change the water every week.
Unless you’re growing plants in African violet pots, water just enough to keep the soil about as moist as a twisted mushroom. Be sure to use room temperature water and do not get water on the leaves, as this can cause spots on the leaves.