Cultivation

Saintpaulia Irrigation

Saintpaulia ionantha H. Wendl.

Saintpaulia irrigation requires preventing water from coming into contact with the pubescent leaves and the center of the rosette, as well as utilizing methods that prevent moisture stagnation in the root zone.

In the reference 5 varieties crop African violet, where this is mentioned in the description.

The specifics of Saintpaulia ionantha irrigation are dictated by the presence of dense trichomes on the leaves and the high sensitivity of the roots to waterlogging. Moisture reaching the leaf blade or the growing point leads to spotting and tissue rot, while the use of cold water causes the formation of permanent light-colored spots.

For this crop, bottom watering via a tray, applying water around the perimeter of the pot, or wick irrigation, which requires a loose substrate, are used. Watering is carried out as the top layer of soil dries out, maintaining the water at room temperature to avoid thermal shock and the development of root rot.

The necessity of maintaining uniform moisture while strictly avoiding overhead irrigation distinguishes Saintpaulia from many other crops. When using the wick method, it is important to consider the size of the container, as this method is effective primarily for small and medium-sized specimens.

General information about the subject — on the page Irrigation.

Sources8

Varieties of African violet mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.