Choosing the Right Plant Light for African Violets

Steven asked whether a plant light bulb exists that fits a table lamp for African violets. He tried a regular fluorescent bulb, but the violets stopped blooming after a few weeks despite using African violet fertilizer.

Expert Answer: Yes, grow light bulbs are available and work well in a desk lamp directed at the plants. However, light duration is critical: African violets need about 16 hours of light and 8 hours of darkness every day, seven days a week. If the lamp is only on during an 8-hour workday, the plants are in darkness too long. Use a timer to provide consistent 16-hour light cycles.

To restart blooming, let the plant rest for about 30 days, then sprinkle a teaspoon of Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) on the soil and water carefully from the top under the leaves to dissolve it. Epsom salts trigger blooming in many flowering plants. The same treatment works for tomatoes—apply ½ cup at planting and again in August.