African violets are popular houseplants, admired for their vibrant blooms and velvety leaves. While they bring beauty to indoor spaces, these plants are sensitive to their environment, especially light. Sunburn is a common issue that can quickly affect their delicate foliage.
Recognizing African Violet Sunburn
Sunburn on African violets appears as changes in their leaves. Signs include bleached spots that are white, yellow, or light green. These discolored areas often show up on the upper leaf surfaces. In severe cases, affected leaf edges may become crispy or turn brown. These symptoms can develop quickly after intense light exposure.
Causes of African Violet Sunburn
African violets are susceptible to sunburn from excessive direct sunlight or intense indirect light. In their natural habitats, African violets grow as understory plants, receiving filtered light through a tree canopy. They are not equipped to handle harsh, unfiltered light. Even a short period of direct sun through a window can cause damage. Intense light breaks down cells within leaves and can disrupt chlorophyll production.
Treating and Recovering from Sunburn
If your African violet shows signs of sunburn, immediate action aids recovery. First, move the plant to a shadier location with bright, indirect light. Next, assess damage and carefully remove any severely burned leaves. Damaged foliage will not recover, so snip these leaves at their base with clean, sharp scissors. Removing them allows the plant to direct energy toward producing new, healthy growth.
During recovery, ensure proper watering by checking soil moisture before watering. Gently misting can increase humidity, which African violets appreciate. After initial stress, consider applying a balanced, half-strength fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season to support new development.
Preventing African Violet Sunburn
Preventing sunburn requires optimal light conditions. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their native environment. East or north-facing windows are ideal locations, offering gentle morning light or consistent indirect light. For south or west-facing windows, which receive stronger sun, place the plant further back or use sheer curtains to diffuse the light.
African violets need 10 to 16 hours of strong light daily to flourish and bloom. Monitor light patterns throughout the day and year, as intensity changes seasonally. Rotate your plant regularly, such as a quarter turn each week, for even light exposure and symmetrical growth. If moving a plant to a brighter location, do so gradually to allow acclimation and prevent shock. Artificial fluorescent or LED grow lights positioned 8 to 15 inches above the plants for 12 to 16 hours a day provide consistent, controlled light.