Growing erect or prostrate, with multi-colored tubular flowers, and leaves ranging in color from light green to bronze, Achimenes are popular plants for hanging baskets and window boxes.

In their natural home, African violets grow in the woods in limestone regions near streams and waterfalls. The plants grow close to rocks and boulders where they get constant shade and where the rocks act to keep the temperature of the soil at a uniform level.Anyone can grow good, robust African violets by observing a few basic rules regarding proper lighting, temperature, watering, humidity, and fertilizing.

Water the containers lightly and set them in the basement or under a greenhouse bench away from frost and where they will not get too wet, dry or hot. A temperature of 50F. (10C.) during storage is satisfactory. Don’t let them dry out.

Proper humidity and watering cannot be overstressed. Many troubles will be avoided if greater care is given these two essentials. To avoid water spotting the leaves, water plants with tepid water when the sun is not shining. on them. Pots three inches or smaller should be watered from the bottom. Pour enough water into the saucer and permit the plant to “drink” for a half hour; then pour off the excess. Larger potted plants should be watered from the top. Do not over water as this cuts off the air from the plants, and air is of the utmost importance.