Which works better for propogating African Violets? Is it better to root in hose down or plant mix?
Is it better to root in hose down or plant mix?
Answers: I've been growing African violets for give or take a few 30 years; I definitely recommend propagating them contained by soil. Water lets them root faster, but I'm convinced the roots and any "baby" leaves that are produced are weaker (especially the leaves, because the marine supports them). I have found that I procure much better plants from leaves propagated in soil. Keep the soil evenly moist; if you can cover the fern with something clear so that they still obtain light and create a "greenhouse" situation, that's the best entry for them - you seldom have to hose down them at all that bearing. Putting a source of warmth lower than the leaves also speeds new growth; I found this out by chance when I set two tray of leaves out. One sat above a fluorescent fixture and stayed thaw out most of the time; the other simply sat on a shelf, and the thaw one probably grew 50% bigger in like peas in a pod period of time!
I don't use rooting hormone; while it help make lots of roots, it seem to "switch on" most of the cells to take home roots, leaving comparatively few to get leaves, which obviously have to happen, too.
I recommend using a biddable potting soil made specifically for African violets; I use Volkmann Brothers soil (they also sell VERY accurate fertilizer), and they will ship if you need them to. Lots of growers enjoy their own soil mixes that they swear by, of course.
I'm putting a couple of links to companies that I close to, as well as a intertwine to the African Violet Society of America. Here's wishing you lots of unsullied "babies"!!!
I have found rooting within plant mix works best for me.