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Why isn’t my African Violet flowering?

Are you wondering why your African violet plant isn’t flowering? There are a few different reasons why this could be happening. Luckily there are ways to bring the African violet back to tip-top shape and encourage blooming.

Not Enough Light

If your African violet plant is not blooming, the most common cause is that the plant is not receiving enough sunlight. African violet houseplants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Bright indirect light can be found in places close to an east-facing window or a few feet back from an unobstructed southern or western window. If the southern or western window has something like a sheer curtain or natural shade from a tree or building outside, the plant can be placed a little closer. Avoid direct sunlight and keep the plant away from any open vents and drafty windows. Check out our lighting guide blog here. Rotate the plant now and then to ensure all the leaves get equal sunlight. If you don’t have a location with ideal lighting for your African Violet, use a Grow Light!

Uneven Watering Routine

To keep your African violet blooming, you must keep the soil evenly moist, but never soggy. Water when the soil volume is 25% dry. This plant likes to be kept moist, but does not like to sit in soggy soil. Avoid getting the leaves wet, and the bottom-watering method is recommended. Place your plant in a sink filled with 2-4″ of water. Leave the plant to soak for up to 45 minutes. Test the top of the soil for moisture. If it still feels dry water a little from the top. When your plant’s soil is evenly damp, drain the sink/tub and allow the plant to rest while it drains thoroughly.

Fertilizing

If your African violet is actively growing, it might need a fertilizer boost. Use a fertilizer formulated for African violets to encourage flowering such as our Houseplant Special Fertilizer.

Need more help?

We're confident your African Violet will be back to normal in no-time, but if you've followed the steps above and things just aren't improving you can contact us here.