Alaska Violet

As with any other houseplant, proper watering is essential in keeping Alaska Violet healthy. Allow the soil to almost completely dry between waterings, and then saturate the soil and allow excess water to drain away. You should avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.

For best results, place Alaska Violet in partial or dappled shade. Avoid direct sunlight but provide an area that gets some bright, indirect sunlight during the day. This plant will grow best in an area that remains bright and consistent. Too much or not enough light can cause the lave to turn yellow.

Alaska Violet prefers temperatures that range from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18-24 degrees Celsius) during the day with 10-20 degrees cooler at night. Extreme temperatures can cause this plant to become stressed and wilted.

Alaska Violet does best in moderate humidity, anywhere from 40 to 80%. If the humidity is too low, such as in a heated home, it's suggested to mist the plant in the morning and group it with other plants to increase humidity. Using a humidifier is another way to maintain enough humidity.

Alaska Violet prefers a light, well-draining soil that is high in peat-based soil. When planting your Alaska Violet, be sure that the crown of the plant is slightly below the soil line, as a crown set too deep in the soil can lead to rot.

Alaska Violet doesn’t require fertilization, but if desired, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during spring and summer months. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for dilution and application.

Alaska Violet is generally pest-free, however aphids and spider mites could be an issue. If these appear, you can treat with horticultural oil as a natural preventative. Plant leaves may lighten in color if chewed by an insect, and if aphids, or soft-bodied insects, appear, you can spray them off with a hard stream of water. Always be sure to check that any pesticides you use are safe and non-toxic.

Alaska Violet does not need to be repotted often. You can repot every 2-3 years at the start of the growing season, using a peat-based soil and a shallow pot. If you choose to repot the plant, only go up a pot size, as too big a pot can lead to root rot.

Pruning is not needed for Alaska Violet, but if desired to make the plant even more compact, prune away any dead or damaged leaves at the base of stems with a pair of sterilized scissors. It’s important to cut back just the affected leaves as cutting too much can cause damage.

Mulching is not necessary for Alaska Violet, but if you choose to use it, be sure to use only organic mulch that is free of weed seeds. It may help retain soil moisture and moderate soil temperature.

Alaska Violet is easy to propagate. Start by taking a cutting from the base of a mature plant. Cut as a bit of root and a few leaves. Place the cutting in a container with moist potting soil. Cover the bottom 1-2 inches of leaves. Place it in a warm spot out of direct sunlight and keep the soil moist. You can also propagate this plant via seed, but it will take some time, as it requires cold stratification.

Since Alaska Violet is small and slow-growing, it does not require stakes or support.

During winter, Alaska Violet spends the season in a state of dormancy, with little to no water needed. This will help protect the plant from over-watering, which can cause root rot. Place it in a dry, cool spot and resume watering in the spring when temperatures warm up.

Alaska Violet is not toxic to people, pets, or animals, making it a safe addition to any room.