African violets are some of my favorite flowering houseplants. Flowers remarkable for their downy leaves and compact clusters. Growing and caring for African violets is a no-brainer. But the curly leaves of African violet can drive you crazy.
So why are the leaves of my African violets curling? Possible causes are cold drafts, pests, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, low humidity, too little water, too much water, root problems, natural properties and many other problems.
The information in this article will help you better understand the problem of African violet leaf curl. Read on for easy African violet leaf health. But leaf curling may be normal depending on the type of African violet plant.
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Reasons to Curl African Violet Leaves
The curly leaves of the African violet can be heartbreaking for beginners. But don’t worry because this article will help you identify the exact cause and the solution. Here are some reasons why African violet leaves curl up or down:
temperature too cold
African violets are tropical flowering plants that thrive at room temperature. These plants prefer a temperature range of 65-75OF (18-24.)OC) during the day and 60OF (16OC) at night.
Any indoor temperature below 55°C (13°C) causes African violet leaves to curl downward. The leaves also become weaker and more brittle than usual.
I recommend investigating the problem with a digital thermometer and moving your favorite plant to a warmer indoor space. Use a heat lamp or grow lights for extra warmth.
Also, keep your houseplant away from sources of cold drafts. Avoid growing African violets near windowsills during the winter season.
pest infestations
Insect infestation is another cause of leaf curl on African violet plants. These sap-sucking creatures suck nutrients from leaves and damage vital tissue.
These pests cause leaf drop and curling. I recommend examining the leaves to identify the exact mite causing the leaf problem on your African violet.
Getting rid of pest infestations can be a daunting and daunting experience. The rule of thumb is to isolate the plant to prevent it from spreading to adjacent houseplants.
Use horticultural soap or neem oil spray to kill scale insects and aphids. These are the common mites that attack African violet plants. Inspect the houseplant for mites while watering.
direct sun exposure
African violets come from the rainforest of Tanzania. These plants grow below the canopy and can tolerate low light.
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will cause the leaves to brown at the edges, dry out, and curl. The curly leaves of the African violet reduce the surface area of water loss.
I recommend moving the houseplant to a sunny, indirect location. Always give the plant enough water and solve the leaf curling problem.
If the condition persists, your African violet plant will collapse and die. Use artificial light instead of direct natural light to avoid leaf curl issues.
Root rot due to excess water
Root rot from overwatering is the main cause of African violet leaf curl. This happens due to poor soil drainage and lack of drainage holes in the pot.
The downward curling of leaves is the first symptom of root rot. Other signs of root rot include yellowing and blackening of the leaves. African violet roots are sensitive to moist environments.
I recommend transplanting into potting soil and fresh potting soil. Cut the affected roots with a sterilized knife and discard them. Don’t forget to provide the ultimate care regimen for African violets.
Discard the houseplant if root rot symptoms persist. The curled leaves will turn brown and soften. take the time to read about it How to save an overwatered African violet?.
Dry soil due to lack of water
Inconsistent watering is another reason why leaves curl. African violets thrive in relatively moist soil.
The humidity keeps the houseplant hydrated and happy throughout the year. Stick your index finger into 2 to 3 inches of topsoil to determine the soil’s moisture content.
If the topsoil is dry, soak it to hydrate your favorite houseplant. Adding water will solve the problem of the leaf curling of the plant.
Plan a strict watering regimen to prevent the soil from drying out. Add free-draining compost to the potting mix to maintain relative humidity and increase fertility.
Varieties of African Violet Plant Leaves
Some African violets have naturally curly leaves. But there are a few different types of curly-leaved African violets.
Get all the crucial information about your African Violet to improve end care. The tips will help you eliminate your worries about curling foils.
The rule of thumb is to investigate the reason behind the leaves of the plant. You will ensure that this is a normal process when growing your African violet.
Root related issue
African violets with root problems have loose, drooping leaves. Roots will also be visible in the top layer of soil and will grow from drainage holes under the pot.
Compacted soil due to root tangles will make it difficult to absorb water and nutrients. The condition of the potting mix will affect the overall health and foliage of the African violet.
I recommend transplanting the houseplant into fresh potting soil and a slightly larger pot. It will help dissolve the curly leaves of the African violet.
Make a habit of repotting African violets every six months in the spring. The technique will help prevent symptoms associated with root problems.
lack of humidity
The natural habitat of African violets is very humid. The warm, humid environment keeps the houseplant happy no matter the season.
Indoor humidity is very sensitive to fluctuations. The houseplant parent should replicate the growing conditions of the natural home habitat.
Low indoor humidity is the reason behind the curly leaves of the plant. The condition can also cause the African violet to drop and die.
Use an electric humidifier to increase indoor humidity. Another great option is to spray the leaves of African violets more often. Ensure good air circulation to avoid pests.
You may also be interested in: Why Are My African Violet Leaves Falling Off?
Why Are My African Violet Leaves Turning Brown?
Excessive fertilization, improper watering regime, and direct sun exposure are the few reasons why African violet leaves turn brown.
Why Are My African Violet Leaves Turning Pink?
The pink leaves of your African violet are due to genetic instability issues. Other possible causes include sudden changes in temperature and water quality.
Why Are My African Violet Leaves Turning White?
Powdery mildew is the white matter on African violet leaves. It is a fungal disease that affects many indoor plants. The outbreak is most common in winter and early spring. (Source: Iowa State University).
Last word
Problems with African Violets They are inevitable and treatable. If you notice the leaves of your African violets curling, don’t worry.
Take the time to examine the plant to determine the exact cause and take the appropriate steps to correct it. Feel free to share the Photos of African Violet Leaf Problems in the comment.
Use the information above to troubleshoot the issue: Problems with African Violets. Thank you for taking the time to read my article on . Lily How to Care for an African Violet Plant? At home.
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