Mass African Violet Decline After Repotting: Fungal Infection or Cultural Shock?

Red Flags

• All 20+ plants declining simultaneously suggests a shared cause.
• Wet, mushy stems when leaves are removed indicates crown rot (fungal/bacterial).
• Repotting stressed plants spreads pathogens via contaminated tools/pots.

Emergency Protocol

1. Isolate any seemingly healthy plants immediately.
2. Do not water for several days; let soil dry slightly.
3. Apply a systemic fungicide labeled for African violets (e.g., thiophanate-methyl) at half strength as a drench.
4. Sterilize all pots, tools, and surfaces with 10% bleach.
5. In future, never repot sick plants; treat first, then repot after recovery.