Need Young African Violet Advice

Hey!

So about two weeks ago, I bought two young African violets from some violet enthusiasts: Buckeye Country Gal (the smaller darker plant in the pictures) and Playful Spectrum (the larger, lighter one). I have a some questions:

1) The Playful Spectrum seems like it's getting big for it's pot. It tips over if I don't prop it against something. Is it time for repotting? If so, how big should its new pot be?

2) The little Buckeye is actually four plants, I think. They are starting to crowd each other. Should I separate them and give them each their own pot? I've been hesitant to do that, since they just now started to grow really quickly.

3) I'm going home for Thanksgiving (I'll be away for four days). My other plants will be fine, and the Playful Spectrum will be fine. I think the Buckeye will dry out. Should I take it with me? Or would that stress it out? I have a cut lemonade jug that I can put it in for the drive so it maintains humidity and is protected from drafts. Maybe that would keep it happy?

I'm so paranoid that I'm going to injure these violets. I've read countless things about repotting and working with young plants, but still...

Any advice is appreciated! Thanks in advance!

-J

That reminds me, I need to water my violets.

Both plants could use bigger pots as those little cups are really small. Get a bag of soil especially designed for violets. The new pots should only allow an extra 1/4 to 1/2 inch all the way around. And, they should be glazed or plastic - in terracotta pots, the stems that rest on the pot will rot. Plant them so the the plant sits at the soil line. But for now, put Playful Spectrum's little pot into a heavier pot so it stays upright. Water them both really well before you leave but don't leave water in the saucer. I wouldn't take Buckeye home for the Holidays - it will probably be happier at home even if it gets a little dry.

Some violets are prone to growing offsets which should be removed as the plant gets so busy growing those, it doesn't bloom. Cut those pesky little offsets off the main body of the violet when they are very small so you don't injure the parent plant. Its hard to save the offsets but if you break a leaf off while performing the surgery, you can start new plants. If it is truly 4 plants in one pot, they will come apart easily or you could leave them together.

African Violets don't like humidity, top watering, cold temperatures (water or air) or direct sun. Otherwise, they are really easy plants to grow.

Daisy

I think it is time for re-potting. I would NOT divide yet, but I think larger pots would allow you to be away and not constantly monitoring their moisture levels. The plants look great. Good luck with them!

Thank you! I appreciate the advice. I will water well and leave them alone for the break, re-pot when I get back.