Saintpaulia Velvet Rosettes CollectionStreptocarpusAfrican Violet

March to September

Saintpaulia are tender perennials and should be kept at a daytime temperature of 18–24°C (65–75°F) and a night time minimum of 16°C (60°F). Place your Saintpaulia in a bright spot that is not in direct sunlight – an east or west-facing windowsill is perfect. Direct sunlight will cause leaf scorch. Avoid draughty positions.

African violets will rot if overwatered and resent being splashed with water. Keep water away from all parts of the plant. Water splashed onto leaves will cause unsightly brown leaf spots and excessive moisture around the plant promotes fungal rots. Either aim the water directly onto the compost or water from below using a saucer, but never leave the plant to sit in water. Water at intervals (about once a week in the growing season) only when the compost has begun to dry out. Room-temperature water, rather than water straight from the cold tap, is best.

Feed every three to four weeks in spring and summer with a dilute liquid houseplant feed. Remove spent flowers to encourage more to form. As the plant grows, repot as necessary in spring into a slightly larger pot.

October to February

Move to a south facing windowsill over winter if possible. Only water when the compost dries out and don't feed. Remove any dead leaves and debris to minimise the chance of pests and diseases. Keep your plant away from cold draughts and avoid exposing it to sudden temperature changes.

African violets need at least ten hours of light and eight hours of darkness each day for continuous flowering. To boost light levels and day length in winter to enjoy year-round blooming, consider using grow lights.

For more information and guidance check out our Gardening Guides.

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

Orders for packets of seed incur a delivery charge of £2.99.

Orders which include any other products will incur a delivery charge of £6.99.

Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products, a maximum delivery charge of £7.99 will apply - regardless of the number of items ordered.

Large Non-standard items may incur a higher, lorry delivery charge. Charges will be calculated at checkout, but an example of the lorry charges are listed below.

• Red - £9.99.
• Purple - £2.99.

For more information please visit our delivery charges information page by clicking here.

For more information on how we send your plants please visit our Helpful Guide on plant sizes.