The Correct Amount of Light

If you have less light than a violet needs, stems will become "leggy" as they reach toward a light source. The plant may likely grow in an asymetrical pattern, while the main stem leans and does not grow straight. If the opposite is the case, and you have too much light (direct sunlight), leaves may burn around the edges.

A Correct Balance

Violets like lots of indirect light, and in many cases can tolerate up to an hour of direct sunlight a day.

Because natural light is unpredictable, growers use fluorescent lights to create an environment where the amount of light is more controlled. Lights should be 40 watt cool light bulbs placed 12" above standard plants, 8" above semi-miniatures and 6" above miniatures. Violets need to get 12 hours of light per day, followed by 12 hours of darkness. To the left, below: Violet leaves show burnout from being placed in too much sun. Sheer curtains can be used to sheild the plant from strong sunlight, but keep in mind that the light will still vary throughout the day. To the right: My setup with leaves under fluorescent lights, getting 12 hours of light per day.




 

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The Correct Amount of Light

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