by Andrew S.
(Ithaca, NY)
I had a violet leaf in a glass of water for quite some time. After a while, I realized that it should be planted.
So, as you can see, it is now in soil, and has looked exactly the same ever since, which has been at least 1-2 months. I’m confused because it doesn’t seem like it is growing, but it also doesn’t seem dead.
Did I do something wrong? What can I do, or should I just start over with a new leaf, or a different propagation message?
Drought Smart Plants reply;
Be patient, if it’s rooted and growing, the growing point is probably under the soil. If you very gently scrape away the soil, you may be able to see it.
However, sometimes after trying to root them in water, even if they root, the growing point where the tiny plant will emerge is rotted. The leaf itself can stay alive for a long time, but if the point is dead then it will eventually die.
If you have lots of the leaves try this instead of in water:
Cut the leaf very cleanly with a razor blade, leaving about one inch of stem.
Let it dry off a little overnight.
Stick the stem a bit into moist potting soil – peat based but with added aggregate will be fine. Cover the pot with an upside down glass jar, and leave it covered for quite a while until you see the tiny plant emerging.
I’ve had them root and grow the infant plant within three weeks if all is to their liking.
I’ve grown them successfully under grow lights, or in a north facing window, on a tray of pebbles.
They like the same kinds of conditions as Begonias and ferns, so a collection with these kinds of plants grouped together and the higher humidity will benefit all of them.
Happy African Violet Growing!
Jacki
PS: I just looked at the picture – no problem, this plant is growing as you can see the tiny new plant. The leaf will wither and die eventually, leaving the brand new plant to its own devices once it’s strong enough. Congratulations! You have a baby African violet!
