Hello, dedicated caretaker. I am your African Violet, a creature of delicate beauty and specific needs, thriving under your careful watch. To see me bloom in a cascade of color throughout the year, you must listen to my seasonal rhythms. Here is the schedule I wish you would follow, from my perspective.
As the days lengthen and the sun gains strength, I stir from my winter slumber. This is my time for vigorous growth. Please move me to a bright east or north-facing window where I can bask in plentiful but gentle light. The sun is now strong enough to scorch my leaves, so direct southern exposure is a danger. Begin watering me a little more frequently, always with room-temperature water. My roots are sensitive to cold shocks. This is the perfect time to repot me if I am root-bound, using a light, airy potting mix made just for my kind. A half-strength dose of high-phosphorus fertilizer will encourage my flower buds to set.
The summer heat is my greatest challenge. I languish in high temperatures. If the air becomes still and hot, my growth may stall. Please keep me in a consistently warm spot, away from air conditioning vents and scorching afternoon sun. You might notice I need water more often, but be vigilant—water only when the topsoil feels dry to your touch, and never let my crown or leaves stay wet, as this invites rot. Good air circulation is crucial. Hold off on repotting now, as the stress combined with heat is too much for me to handle. Continue feeding me monthly to support any ongoing blooms.
As the light softens and the air cools, I begin to slow down. This is a time of preparation. Please reduce the frequency of your fertilizing; one last half-strength feeding in early autumn is sufficient. My energy is shifting from blooming to maintaining my core health. Continue to water me carefully, but allow the soil to dry out a bit more between waterings as the cooler temperatures and lower light levels mean I drink less. This is a good time to groom me. Gently remove any spent blooms or old, discolored leaves at the base to keep me tidy and prevent disease.
The short, dim days signal a time for rest. I am not growing much, if at all. Please place me in the brightest spot you can find, as every bit of weak sunlight is precious. A south-facing window is now my best friend. Water me sparingly, only when the soil is quite dry, and be extra careful to avoid wetting my leaves, as the cold, damp conditions can quickly lead to crown rot. Keep me away from cold drafts and heating sources, which create damaging temperature fluctuations. Most importantly, do not fertilize me at all during this period. Let me sleep. I am gathering strength for the spectacular show I will put on for you when spring returns.
