A relative of African Violets, Streptocarpus prefers the same growing conditions of bright, indirect light. Avoid hot sun, which can burn the leaves and fade the flowers. Day and night temperatures of 60-75°F are fine year round. Water only when the top inch of the potting mix is dry to the touch. To avoid causing spots on the leaves, use tepid water or water from the bottom of the pot. Providing water too frequently will cause the roots, leaves, and base of the plant to rot. If the leaves look wilted even when the soil is moist, you may be overwatering. Let the top inch of the potting mix dry out before watering again. Plants require less water during the winter months (November through February). From spring through fall, apply a water-soluble fertilizer that is high in phosphorus (such as 15-30-15) every 3 weeks. Withhold fertilizer during the winter months, when your plant will stop growing actively and rest. Use scissors to cut off the stalks of faded flowers. Repot your plant into a slightly larger pot in spring.
