African violets are one of the most popular flowering houseplants because of their pretty leaves and bright flowers. After African violets reach full size, they often grow new plants, called “pups,” around the base of the mother plant. It’s easy and free to make more African violets by separating these pups.
This detailed guide will tell you everything you need to know to separate baby African violet plants, such as:
- Reasons for separating pups
- When to separate African violet pups
- Step-by-step instructions
- Aftercare tips
Why Separate African Violet Pups?
There are a few key reasons you may want to separate pups from the mother African violet plant
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Reduce crowding. As the pups grow, they can crowd the mother plant and compete for nutrients and light. Separating them gives both the pups and mother plant more room to grow.
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Propagate new plants. African violet pups can be split up and put in new pots to make brand-new plants that can grow on their own. It is simple and free to make more African violets.
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Encourage blooming Removing the pups may encourage the mother plant to focus its energy on flowering rather than producing new pups
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Share with friends. The separated pups make great gifts for fellow plant lovers!
When to Separate African Violet Pups
Timing is important when separating African violet pups. Here are some tips:
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Wait until the pups have 3-4 mature leaves before removing them. Very tiny, undeveloped pups may not survive separation.
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Ideally, separate pups during the active growing season in spring and summer. They can adapt more quickly when the weather is warm.
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When the African violet is getting ready to bloom, don’t separate the pups. This could disrupt bud development.
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Separate pups in the morning or evening to avoid exposing their delicate roots and leaves to intense midday sun.
Step-By-Step Guide to Separating African Violet Pups
Follow these simple steps for safely removing and repotting African violet pups:
Gather Supplies
Before getting started, assemble these supplies:
- Small pots (2-3 inches) for the separated pups
- African violet potting mix
- Sharp, clean scissors or knife
- Spoon or chopstick for gently loosening soil
Remove Mother Plant from Pot
Gently tip the mother plant upside down and slide it out of its container. Try to keep the root mass intact.
Loosen Soil
Gently loosen the soil around the mother plant’s roots using a spoon, chopstick, or your hands. Take care not to damage any roots.
Identify and Remove Pups
Locate pups growing at the base of the mother plant. They will look like tiny rosettes of leaves. Carefully cut or twist to detach each pup along with some roots.
Aim to keep as much of the root system intact as possible on each pup. But be careful not to remove too many roots from the mother plant.
Pot the Pups
Gently place each pup in its own small pot filled with African violet potting mix. Bury the roots just below the soil surface.
Water and Position Pups
Water the repotted pups, allow excess water to drain, then place them in a warm spot with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun at first.
Caring for Separated African Violet Pups
With the right care, your separated pups will establish as independent plants. Follow these tips:
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Light: Provide bright, indirect light from an east or west window. Avoid hot direct sunlight.
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Water: Water from below by placing pots in a tray of water. Let soil dry slightly between waterings.
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Humidity: Increase humidity around pups by grouping pots together or placing them on a pebble tray.
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Temperature: Maintain indoor temperatures between 65-80°F. Avoid cold drafts.
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Fertilizer: Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks.
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Repotting: Transplant pups to larger containers as they outgrow their pots, using African violet potting mix.
With attentive care and the right growing conditions, your separated African violet pups will flourish into full-sized, blooming plants. Enjoy watching your new baby violets develop and multiply!
African Violet Sucker Propagation
Exactly what are African violet pups? Pups, also known as suckers, are miniature plants that grow from the base of the mother plant. A pup grows from the plant’s main stem– not from a leaf or the crown. A mature African violet might have one pup or it may have several. Not only does getting rid of suckers help make more plants, but it also protects the mother plant from harm. This is because suckers can take away nutrients and energy from the plant, which stops it from flowering and shortens its life.
HOW TO Separate OVERGROWN Baby AFRICAN VIOLETS!!!! Finding the Crowns and Repotting Plants
FAQ
When to split African violets?
You get a second plant for free! The best time to divide African violets is just after flowering so that the plant’s energy is directed towards root production. May 24, 2024.
How do you separate African violet plants?
Using a sharp knife, divide the plant into two or three smaller plants, taking care to determine where these separations happen naturally, and allocating as many roots as possible for each individual plant, Martha says. Gently separate the plant, taking care not to break any leaves or stems.
When should an African violet be repotted?
Repot violets in pots less than 3 inches every two to three months for the best results. Repot violets in pots 4 inches or bigger every six to twelve months. Tip #6 Avoid disturbing roots during repotting if you want to keep enjoying the flowers or buds.
Do African violets like to be crowded?
African violets should be watered from below, using a self-watering or ceramic African violet pot. Feed regularly with Miracle-Gro® Indoor Plant Food. Split the parent plant into smaller plants when your African violet becomes large and crowded.