How to Flush Minerals From the Soil of African Violets

African violets, like many houseplants, require regular watering and feeding to promote healthy growth and blooming. Plant foods and fertilizers often leave behind salts and minerals in the soil, particularly when you water the plant from the bottom. This often appears as a white powdery or crusty film on the top of the soil or around the edges of the pot. Even without these telltale signs, your African violets may be suffering from a buildup of residue. Contact with the residue may cause pitiole rot in African violets. Flushing it from the pot corrects the problem and restores your soil to good health.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Place the African violet plant in the sink or in a large waterproof basin.

   • 2

     Pour water over the soil in the pot, using care not to get water on the foliage. Water that contacts the foliage of African violets causes permanent light spots or rings. Water should be at room temperature to avoid shocking tender roots.

   • 3

     Water until water runs freely through the bottom of the pot. The amount of water needed depends on the texture of the potting medium and the size of the pot. For a good flushing, keep watering for several minutes.

   • 4

     Repeat the procedure once a month to prevent the buildup of salts and minerals in the soil of your African violets.