leaf spots on African Violet
Quick answer
If your African Violet has leaf spots, the most likely cause is: African Violets (Saintpaulia) require bottom-watering to prevent leaf spot and fungal issues — water on leaves creates a lens effect that concentrates light, causing burn marks and promoting Botrytis cinerea growth.
Start here:
- 1. Place pot in a shallow tray of room-temperature water for 20-30 minutes
- 2. Allow soil to absorb moisture through drainage holes — do not let pot sit in standing water
Why African Violet gets leaf spots
African Violets (Saintpaulia) require bottom-watering to prevent leaf spot and fungal issues — water on leaves creates a lens effect that concentrates light, causing burn marks and promoting Botrytis cinerea growth.
How to reverse leaf spots on African Violet
- 1
Place pot in a shallow tray of room-temperature water for 20-30 minutes
- 2
Allow soil to absorb moisture through drainage holes — do not let pot sit in standing water
- 3
Empty tray after watering to prevent root rot
- 4
Water when top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter
Keep leaf spots off this African Violet
Water African Violets from the bottom by placing the pot in a tray of room-temperature water for 20-30 minutes; empty excess water after soil absorbs adequate moisture.