How to Care for Small Potted African Violet Plant

Maintain room temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 60 to 70 F during the night. You may have to move an African violet growing on the windowsill away from m the window during chilly nights, according to Purdue University.

Place a small African violet near other plants to help increase humidity since plants emit moisture. Alternately, use a room humidifier or place the potted violet on a shallow container filled with water and gravel so the plant sits above the water, not in it. A humid basement or bathroom may also be a good place to grow an African violet.

Grow an African violet plant in a bright area of the home, but not in direct sunlight except during the winter when some sunlight is OK. Placing the plant near a north- or east-facing window often works well, or 8 to 12 inches from a cool, fluorescent light that is turned on approximately 14 hours a day, according to University of Missouri.

Water an African violet when the soil is dry to the touch and water it thoroughly enough that water starts to come out of the drainage hole. Do not over-water so that the soil is soaking wet. It should be slightly moist. After watering, dispose of the extra water in the drainage dish.

Fertilize an African violet in the spring, summer and fall only when it is not growing well. Use a houseplant fertilizer and follow the schedule and dosing amounts written on the label; however, keep in mind it’s better to under-fertilize an African violet than over-fertilize it.