How to Force African Violets to Bloom Better and Fuller
04.07.2023 - 07:39
/ balconygardenweb.com
It can be frustrating to bring home an ornamental plant like the African Violet when it refuses to bloom. Read on to learn everything about How to Force African Violets to Bloom.
African violets require bright, indirect light to bloom. Place them near a north or east-facing window where they can receive sufficient light without being exposed to direct sunlight, which can scorch their delicate leaves. Consider using sheer curtains or blinds to filter the light if it’s too intense.
If your room doesnt get natural light, then consider providing supplemental lighting using fluorescent grow lights or LED lights.
Position the lights 6-12 inches above the plants and provide 12-16 hours of light per day. This can help compensate for low light conditions and promote earlier blooming.
These plants thrive in high humidity environments. To increase humidity around your African violets, you can place them on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
As the water evaporates, it creates a humid microclimate around the plants. Alternatively, using a humidifier in the room can also be beneficial. Misting the leaves occasionally can also help raise humidity levels.
African violets benefit from regular fertilization to promote blooming. Look for a fertilizer blend with an N-P-K ratio that emphasizes phosphorus, such as 10-30-20 or 5-10-5.
For African violets, it’s generally recommended to use about ¼ to ½ the strength of the recommended dosage. Do this every 2-4 weeks during the active growing season, which typically occurs in spring and summer.
Reduce or cease fertilization during the winter months when the plant’s growth slows down.
Pro Tip: In addition to regular fertilization, you can use a bloom-boosting fertilizer specifically formulated for