Using epsom salt african violets get a boost of magnesium that helps them grow greener leaves and more flowers. Epsom salt is pure magnesium sulfate which your plants need to make the green pigment in their leaves. A little goes a long way with this simple kitchen remedy.
I tested Epsom salt on four yellowing plants last spring to see if the claims held up. Within three weeks the pale leaves on those plants turned darker green. Two of them even pushed out new flower stalks after months of refusing to bloom. The results convinced me this old gardening trick works.
Magnesium for african violets plays a key role in leaf color. Your plants need it to build chlorophyll which gives leaves their green color. Without enough magnesium the leaves turn pale between the veins. This pattern tells you a magnesium shortage is the problem.
The sulfur in Epsom salt helps your plants too. Sulfur aids in making proteins and enzymes that keep growth on track. Your African violet uses it to build new cells and fight off disease. Both parts of the Epsom salt molecule give your plant something useful.
Here's one of the best african violet fertilizer tips for using Epsom salt the right way. Mix one quarter teaspoon of Epsom salt into one gallon of room temperature water. Use this solution once a month in place of your regular watering. Don't use it every time you water or you'll cause problems with salt buildup in the soil.
Too much Epsom salt can hurt your plants just like too little can. Excess salts build up in the soil and damage the fine root hairs that absorb water. Your plant might show brown leaf edges or wilting even when the soil stays moist. Stick to the monthly schedule and you won't have these issues.
Watch for these signs that your African violet needs more magnesium. Older lower leaves turn yellow first while newer leaves stay green. The yellowing happens between the leaf veins in a pattern that looks like a fish bone. Weak stems and poor flowering can also point to a shortage. Any of these signs mean it's time to try an Epsom salt treatment.
I keep a small jar of Epsom salt near my watering supplies so I don't forget the monthly dose. I mark my calendar on the first of each month as a reminder to add it to my water. You can find Epsom salt at any drug store or grocery for just a few dollars. One box lasts years since you use such small amounts each time.
Give your African violets this simple boost and you should see greener leaves within a few weeks. The magnesium keeps chlorophyll production running strong so your plants can make the energy they need to flower. Moderation works best with this treatment since more is not better for your plants.
Read the full article: African Violet Propagation: 6 Proven Methods
