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 Hi, I rescued a mini violet from the garbage one year ago. It has grown to be lush and beautiful. In fact, too lush! It has developed two crowns, but no sign of buds or blooms. I have fertilized only with 1/4 strength Optimara for violets. It gets perfect light/water/humidity. What causes a violet to develop crowns? Also, and more importantly why no blooms? Your opinion is appreciated.
Answer Miniature and semi-miniature AVs develope two crowns or a sucker because of heridity. The grandfather of miniatures Saintpaulia schumensis, was discovered growing wild in Africa. This plant developed the minis and semis we know today as well as the trailers. Because it had a tendency to put up more crowns or suckers, it has passed this along to our present-day miniatures.
African violets need about 4 to 6 hours a day of bright light with no direct sun. It is the light that makes flowers in addition to using 1/4 teaspoon in a gallon of water feedings every 7-10 days. If the plant has sufficient light and regular fertilizer, it should bloom.
Have you changed the soil? Miniatures need to have fresh soil about 3 times a year.
You should have a beautifully performing plant when all these factors are used.
