Propagating African Violets

I really enjoy growing African violets.

If you care for them properly, they really are easy to care for, they will bloom all year round. Something I really appreciate in the midst of a long, cold winter. Probably shouldn't've said that. Long, cold winters are still a sore spot for many of us. BAH!!

Moving right along then!

African violet foliage is beautiful, all soft and fuzzy, just begging for you to touch it!

The blooms are stunning!

And there are so many varieties to choose from!! That's where I can get into trouble. 

I want them all! 

But I don't want to buy them all. So when a friend has a variety or two - maybe three - that I don't have, but I've just got to have, I ask for a single leaf clipping from the plant. 

I take that clipping, or three, and place it into a small vase filled with water.

In two to four weeks time the clipping will begin to sprout fine roots. 

In another week or so you will begin to see new leaves at the base of the cutting. It's so cool!!

At this point it's time to plant the clippings.

I waited a little longer than usual to plant these clippings because I wanted to Mod Podge some pots for them. I may have procrastinated a little on the pots. Eh hem. 

Whatcha think? Cute, no?

When I have it on hand, I use an African violet soil mix. This time I was out, so I just used a regular potting soil. It's not ideal, but it will do the trick.

Gently press in the potting mix. Don't pack it tightly, just gently press it in to be sure your pot is well filled with soil.

Place the cutting into the soil, allowing those new leaves to remain above the soil line.

Again, gently press in the soil around the cutting and give the soil a good misting of water.

Once the new plant has taken solid root, cut away the original leaf and watch your new little African violet plant grow!

In time, you will have a new plant bursting with flower buds! SQUEAL!!!

To keep your African violet thriving, make sure it has plenty of indirect sunlight, water enough that the soil is moist, but never soggy. I keep a bottle of water, with African violet fertilizer added, in the cabinet because the plants do best with room temperature water. And always pinch off spent blooms and leaves. 

All in all a very beautiful and easy to care for plant. 

Christine