African Violets "Escaping" Pots: Neck Management, Light Seeking, and Division

Diane's 30+ year old African violets developed twisted stems growing up and out of pots. Adding soil or larger pots didn't help. Some grew upright, others fanned out. One leaf-propagated plant became multi-crown.

Neck Management (Twisted Stems)

1. Repot twice yearly for fresh soil
2. Remove dead lower leaves creating "necks"
3. Scrape neck, cut back to 2" straight section if twisted
4. Repot in fresh soil covering neck
5. Bag 2+ weeks for humidity/rooting

Upright Leaves = Light Seeking

Plants growing straight up need more light. Move to brighter location.

Trailer vs. Standard

Fanned growth may indicate a trailing variety, not standard rosette type.

Dividing Multi-Crown Plants

1. Let soil dry slightly
2. Identify each crown (center 4 tiny leaves)
3. Gather leaves belonging to each crown
4. Gently tug apart
5. Pot each crown separately