About Nancy Expertise I can answer questions on the following subjects:
Pests, chemicals
Showing AVs
Sowing Seeds
Problems with plants
Basics of AV growing
Episcias
Streptocarpus
Experience I am an African violet Advanced Judge in US and Canada. I have written a book on pests of African violets called "Insects, Pests and Diseases of the African Violet Family" My articles appear in African Violet Magazine and Chatter as well as in other magazines.
Organizations AVSA
AVSC
African Violet Society of Greater Montreal
Saintpaulia Society of Montreal
Publications Book author: "Insects, Pests and Diseases of the African Violet Family"
African Violet Magazine, many issues
Chatter Magazine Many issues
Horticulture
Other Magazines
Education/Credentials University of Indiana Master's work (Music)
Awards and Honors Jr. Queen of Show (Pixie Blue) AVSC Convention Montreal
Approximately 100 blue ribbons
25 or so Best of Class
Past/Present clients I sell mostly leaves on Ebay. I sell plants at convention shows and local shows.
Question I have two beautiful African Violets. Can I give these to my daughter for her to plant OUTDOORS.
Answer It is possible to grow African violets outside if the weather is not too cool or too hot. Room temperature is all right, about 70-83 degrees. It would have to be in half-shade, receiving good light but not direct sun.
However, rain might spot leaves and make flowers rot early and if you wanted to bring the plant in in autumn, you would have to spray it with a few different products to make sure you weren't bringing in many of the insects that are outside such as thrips, aphids, fungus gnats and others.
African violets would grow very well on a shaded porch.
