African violets are blooming companions who like to add a visual treasure to the cozy home. But they are considered to be high-maintenance. Is repotting also a challenge and how should it be done?
When and how should you repot African violets?
African violets should be repotted in spring when the pot is rooted and the leaves are small or crowded. Choose a new pot with drainage holes that is only 3-5 cm larger. Remove damaged roots and leaves before planting and place in a bright, warm location.
Reasons that make repotting sensible
There are several reasons why repotting an African violet makes sense:
- no longer blooming
- Roots have no more room
- Plant should be divided (propagation)
- Pot is damaged
- Soil is depleted of nutrients
When is the best time to repot?
African violets should be repotted in spring. It is advisable not to repot them while they are in full bloom. You should also be careful not to repot this plant until its pot is completely rooted. The roots should stick out from the bottom. Another indication of a suitable time is if the leaves of the plant are very small or are too close together.
Choose a pot that is not too big
Attention: Many people make this mistake! The new pot shouldn't be too big. It is sufficient if it is 3 to 5 cm wider than the previous pot. African violets thrive in small spaces.
If, on the other hand, the African violets have too much space, they put all their energy into their root growth and leaves. As a result, they no longer bloom. On top of that, you should choose a pot with drainage holes!
Let’s go
Repotting itself is not a problem:
- fill new pot halfway with potting soil (€10.00 on Amazon)
- Removing the African violets from the old pot
- remove dried and rotting root areas with a knife
- insert: Leaves lie on the top edge of the pot
- Leave a watering rim so that water cannot run over the edge of the pot
- pour heavily
- place in a bright, warm and humid location
How to correctly remove damaged leaves
Before the African violet is placed in the new pot, it should be checked for damaged leaves. If you notice such leaves, tear them sideways with a jerk. Don't cut it! This means that stem residue remains on which fungi and bacteria can settle and make the plant sick.
Tips & Tricks
Don't leave your African violet unattended when repotting if you have cats! The plant is poisonous to these animals!
