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 Won't liquid pesticide hurt the leaves of the violet or is there a powder? I have never had bugs before and am at a loss. Thank you
Answer Yes, chemicals in pesticide can spoil leaves and flowers. Some are liquid, others are granular that are spread on top of the roots and watered in.
Aphids can be picked off and squeezed between your fingers if you don't want to use pesticides.
Insecticidal soap is a less harmful way to get the aphids. Or you can use a garlic solution or rosemary, cinnamon and garlic oil.
If you had a large collection and had a big outbreak of aphids I would suggest using Malathion, Diazinon or pyrethrins. With only a few plants, I would just spray with insecticidal soap if you are squeemish about squashing them between your fingers.
