Propagate African Violets From A Single Leaf Cutting For Stunning Houseplants

Flowers are even better when shared with friends and family, and almost none are easier to share than the African violet (Saintpaulia ionantha). This houseplant took the world by storm when it was discovered by Europeans in Tanzania, soon spreading across Europe and the United States. The whimsical, delicate flowers gained so much popularity that when the first national African violet show was held in 1946 in Atlanta, Georgia, the police had to be called to rein in the crowd. Now, this pretty blue flower continues to be one of the most popular houseplants.

If you're decorating your home with plants, African violets are a great choice. They bloom almost constantly, and African violets grow well in modern, non-drafty homes, especially if they have access to adequate sunlight or fluorescent light. It's easy to multiply your collection as well. Now, if a friend admires the pop of color your African violet adds to your home, don't just say thank you. Use a sharp knife or scissors to snip off a leaf — leaving at least an inch of stem attached — and let them grow their own African violet to match yours.

It's easy to learn to propagate plants like a pro. You can propagate African violets anytime, but the best time is spring and summer, as the light will help the cutting establish roots and leaves. First, make sure your cutting tools and environment are sanitized. An easy way to do this is to wipe your tools and working surface with a solution of one part chlorine bleach to five parts water (using 5% chlorine bleach). Always be sure to follow any package directions when working with chemicals.

Then, choose a healthy-looking leaf to snip. You'll want to avoid any with brown spots or holes or any that are wilting. At this point, you can dip the stem in a rooting hormone, such as Hormex Rooting Powder or Midas Hydro Rooting Compound, available on Amazon. These mimic natural plant hormones to help your African violet cutting grow roots more quickly. Now, it's ready to place in your pot.

There are several things you can do to give your African violet cuttings the best chance to grow. First, consider using a potting soil mix made for them, such as Perfect Plants African Violet Potting Soil, available on Amazon. Carefully poke a small hole in your soil and place the cutting in it. If it has trouble standing up, node holders can help. Now your African violet cutting is ready to start growing!

Another thing you can do is create your own DIY greenhouse to keep moisture in. It's simple and uses things that you already have around the house. Simply take a clear plastic bag and place it around the top of your pot. Make sure none of the African violet leaves are touching the bag, and then use a rubber band to secure it to the pot. Voila — your African violet cuttings are ready to grow into stunning new houseplants!