Root Rot

Overwatering

To address root rot in African violets, first, allow the soil to dry out before watering again. If the plant is severely affected, remove it from its pot, trim away any brown or mushy roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil. Use a pot with adequate drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating. Going forward, water your African violet only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.

Leaf Wilt and Droop

Underwatering

To address leaf wilt and droop caused by underwatering, ensure your African Violet is watered consistently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Use lukewarm water to avoid shocking the plant's roots. Consider using a self-watering pot to maintain consistent moisture levels. If the plant is severely dehydrated, soak the pot in a tray of water for 30 minutes to rehydrate the soil thoroughly, then drain any excess water to prevent root rot.

Powdery Mildew

Fungal infection caused by Oidium species

To manage powdery mildew, ensure your African violets are in a well-ventilated area with sufficient air circulation. Avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry. If infection occurs, remove and destroy affected leaves. For severe cases, apply a fungicide specifically labeled for use on African violets, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Regular monitoring and early intervention are key to preventing the spread of this disease.

Powdery Mildew

Fungal infection

Powdery mildew is a common fungal issue in African violets, presenting as white, powdery spots on leaves. To manage this, ensure good air circulation around your plants and avoid overhead watering to keep foliage dry. Infected leaves should be removed and disposed of immediately. For severe cases, apply a fungicide specifically labeled for use on African violets, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Prevention is key, so maintain a clean growing environment and quarantine new plants before introducing them to your collection.