I was given a very old, overgrown African violet and I know it needs dividing and repotting, but I'm not sure how to handle it. This poor thing has sat there for so long that it's grown great long necks where the leaves have been removed. The tops of each crown seem healthy, but I don't know much about violets and I'm not sure how to go about working with these. I'm sure there is probably a link here somewhere that would help me, but I'm not having luck finding it. Could someone direct me?
Willow
old violet how-to needed
Sounds like there are multiple crowns - can you post a picture?
Willow; Rob's Violets has an excellent site, and while they do sell, they also have excellent information you might want to see to take care of your plant. It has information about dividing, lowering a "neck", etc. Just do an online search for Rob's Violet Barn. Hope this helps. ChuLin
ChuLin, thank you so much. I found exactly the information I was needing. I'm off to repot and see if this poor thing can become beautiful once again.
Willow
I just want to add that violets don't like to be too wet, only damp. They will rot very quickly with too much water, dryer is better. Just in case you haven't grown too many violet plants I wanted you to know. tish
Tish has given you great advice!! Violets are especially sensitive to too much water when they have been de-necked or divided.With a little TLC those old cultivars are pretty tough!! Be sure to put down a couple of leaves to root also.
Lynn
Lynn and lily, thank you so much. I haven't grown many violets at all, so I really appreciate the advice. My sister has grown nice ones and I remember her starting more from leaves, so I'll have to look up how. Winter will be a good time for projects like this and might keep me from missing my outdoor gardens so much.
Willow
Watch out Willow!! You hang around here long.......the next thing you know you'll have10,20, or even 30 av's!