How to Grow African Violet Seeds on a Paper Towel

African violet plants have dark-green, furry leaves with a scalloped edge and purple, pink or white flowers. They are tropical plants originating in Africa. They thrive mostly indoors in the United States because they are intolerant of frost and cold temperatures. Although most gardeners purchase the plants as seedlings or mature plants, African violets also grow well from seed. Germinate the seeds indoors in approximately 14 days using damp paper towels.

Clear plastic storage container
Paper towels
Water
Spray bottle
African violet seed
Plastic wrap
Fluorescent lights (optional)
Thermometer
Heating mat (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Locate a shallow, clear-plastic storage container. Clear containers are required because African violet seeds require light to properly germinate.
- 2
  Tear off three to four paper towel sheets and stack them one on top of another. Lay the paper towels on the plastic storage container’s bottom. Use plain white paper towels, instead of those with designs, so that you can more easily see the seeds.
- 3
  Fill a spray bottle with tap water and spray the paper towels until all portions are saturated.
- 4
  Open a package of African violet seeds and gently sprinkle them on the damp paper towel’s surface as evenly as possible. Since the seeds are very tiny, almost dust-like, it is impossible to space them individually.
- 5
  Tear off a piece of clear plastic wrap and lay it over the top of the container, pressing the edges around the rim securing it.
- 6
  Place the container in a sunny windowsill receiving bright light all day. If no window is available, place the container 9 inches under fluorescent light bulbs and leave them on for 12 to 14 hours each day.
- 7
  Monitor the temperature using a thermometer to ensure it stays between 70 and 80 Fahrenheit. If needed, increase the container temperature using a heating mat.

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