Quick answer: African violet seeds are dust-tiny and need light. Surface-sow them on moist, fine mix without covering, keep them under a dome at 70–75°F, and expect sprouts in 2–8 weeks.

Learning how to grow from seed? Head over to our planting guide!

African Violet Seeds - Plantflix

details

Difficulty Advanced
Germination 2–8 weeks
Temperature 70–75°F
Depth Surface sow (don't cover)
Seed prep (none needed!)
Method Greenhouse
Time to maturity 6-12 months
Light Part Sun / Grow Lights
Pet-friendly Yes
african violet seeds

instructions

  1. Open the seeds carefully. Open the seeds over a white sheet of paper to catch them if they fall out.
  2. Moisten fine mix. Use a light, fine seed mix and water it first.
  3. Surface sow. Tap seeds onto the surface of the soil. Don't cover them.
  4. Dome on. Cover with a humidity dome at 70–75°F under bright indirect light or a grow light.
  5. Bottom-water only. Water from below so the seeds don't wash away.
  6. Prick out seedlings once they're big enough to handle, usually 6–8 weeks after sprouting.

things to know

  • Tiny at first: seedlings are barely visible for weeks.
  • Flowers take time: expect blooms in about 6–12 months.
  • Seed-grown surprises: flower colors can vary from seed.
  • Pick a planter that holds moisture: plastic, rice hull or ceramic, with a dome. Skip terra cotta, peat pots, coco coir pots and egg cartons. They wick water away from the seed.
  • New to seeds? Start with our seed prep guide and planting guide.
grow your own!

plant care tips

  • Light: bright indirect light or a grow light 12–14 hrs/day for steady blooms.
  • Water: bottom-water with room-temperature water. Cold water spots the leaves.
  • Keep leaves dry: water on fuzzy leaves causes marks and rot.
  • Feeding: African violet fertilizer every 2–4 weeks.
  • Pot size: they bloom best slightly root-bound in small pots.
try them out!

faqs

How long do African violet seeds take to sprout?

Usually 2–8 weeks.

Why won't my African violet bloom?

Usually not enough light. Add a grow light.

Why are there spots on the leaves?

Usually cold water or water sitting on the leaves.

Are African violets pet-safe?

Yes, they're listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs.

these are key aspects of your setup

check your setup!

  • 💡light: is your setup away from direct sun? these seeds should stay in indirect or filtered light, or better yet, under grow lights.
  • 💧moisture: does the soil feel very moist to the touch?
  • 🌡️temperature: is the setup away from direct sun, open windows, or heat vents? make sure it stays consistently between 70F-90F (use a heat mat if the temperature falls under 70F)
  • ☁️humidity: do you see condensation on the humidity dome? if not, make sure the dome is fully sealed, the setup is warm enough, and there's enough moisture in the soil.
  • 💚care: leave the dome on and only open it once a week to add water.
"Plant Projects" Home Garden Subscription Box - Plantflix

loved growing this one?

get a new plant project every month 🌱

each box comes with unique seeds and the supplies to actually sprout them, plus a hand-drawn care guide. free shipping, cancel anytime.


$10 off your first box with code PLANTPROJECTS + a free sprout starter pack

try a subscription!

what's next?

  • "Grow an Indoor Jungle" Houseplant Seed Kit - Plantflix
    seed kits

    197 Reviews

    "Grow an Indoor Jungle" Houseplant Seed Kit
    from $40.50
    from $40.50
    Choose options
  • "Grow your own Jungle" Houseplant Seed Collection - Plantflix
    seed collections

    197 Reviews

    "Grow your own Jungle" Houseplant Seed Collection
    $63.00
    $54.08
    $63.00
    Quick Add
  • Grow a Monstera Seed Kit - Plantflix
    seed kits

    197 Reviews

    Grow a Monstera Seed Kit
    $25.50
    $25.50
    Quick Add
  • Grow a Coffee Plant Seed Kit - Plantflix
    seed kits

    197 Reviews

    Grow a Coffee Plant Seed Kit
    $18.00
    $18.00
    Choose options
View all