7 Signs You Need to Repot Your African Violets : African violets are hardy indoor plants that can survive for as long as fifty years in houseplant collections. Repotting African violets (Saintpaulia ionantha) on occasion, however, helps maintain the health and abundant blooming of these plants throughout time. Stunted growth, decreased flowering, pot-bound roots, and drooping leaves are indications that your violets need to be replanted. The following crucial advice on repotting African violets will enable you to finish the process effectively and extend the life of your plants by several years.
7 Signs You Need to Repot Your African Violets
1. Know when to repot.
Although it’s preferable to avoid repotting plants when they’re in blossom, African violets can be repotted at any time of the year. Repotting should occur every six months, according to most African violet lovers. This is especially useful in cases where a plant develops long, unattractive “necks” or stems that can be fixed by repotting. If the plants are growing in a pot that is too big, they may also need to be repotted. Root rot is more likely to occur in oversized pots due to overwatering.
2. Choose the right pot size.
Repot African violets in the same pot or choose a different growing container. Repot your African violet in a container that is one size smaller (or larger) than the plant’s original pot, though, if it requires a different kind of container. Long-necked plants may normally be returned to their original pot, but you might need to trim off some of the lower roots to make the plant sit lower in the pot and have leaves that are somewhat over the soil.
3. Add drainage holes.
Make sure the plant’s pot has lots of drainage holes whether you grow African violets in self-watering planters or pots. The intention is to avoid soggy soil and facilitate rinsing the potting mix in the event that salts and minerals build up. Plant pots with pebbles and other objects in the bottom don’t have better drainage, but if necessary, you can use a power drill and masonry drill bit to drill holes for drainage.
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4. Try an azalea pot.
African violets can be housed in planters and pots made of plastic, terracotta, or ceramic materials; however, growing them in azalea pots will likely make them even happier. Because azalea pots are smaller than typical terra-cotta pots, they are ideal for accommodating African violets’ short root systems and avoiding overwatering.
5. Sterilize old pots.
It is best to sanitize the planter before repotting your African violet plant into an old container or planter. Sometimes dangerous nematodes or bacteria can be found in old pots, which might affect the growth and health of your African violets. Old pots can be sterilized by immersing them in a 10% bleach solution for half an hour.
6. Select quality potting mix.
When the time comes to repot your African violets, use a well-draining, fresh potting mix. Potting mixes designed specifically for African violets are available in many places, but you may also build your own potting mix using vermiculite, perlite, and coconut coir, often known as peat moss. African violets have tiny, fragile roots that can be overtaken by heavy soil, so having a loose, well-draining potting mix is crucial to their health.
9. Water your plant.
After you repot your African violet into a rich, well-draining potting mix, give the plant a deep drink of water to help it settle in. You don’t need to fertilize African violets for at least six weeks after repotting since most potting mixes contain added plant nutrients.
