Could it because of over fertilising or something else?

[TaylorEhrhart]

I am growing these Standards under LED lights using Orchid fertilizer for many years, recently i keep on having these brown edge problem on my leaves. I thought they are caused by gutation but regular observation indicate it is unlikely as there were no visible moisture droplets and tends to leave a white mark rather then browning. Could it because of over fertilising or something else?



_____Greenhouse Forum_____



Please help, thanks.

[estación seca]

African violets are sensitive to minerals in the water and soil. People recommend using pure water (distilled, rain, reverse osmosis) for them. Repotting every two years replaces mineral-laden soil.

[Roberta]

Moving this to the Off Topic-Totally forum, which is for non-orchids

[Leafmite]

If you do use tap water, you might need to adjust the pH now and then. My grandmother grew African violets for more than fifty years and used tap water but she would add something now and then to adjust the pH (I think she used vinegar?). When I grew them, I used a liquid fertilizer specified for them that assumed I used tap water. You can lower pH with cottenseed meal or Ironite...I just did this with all my tropical plants and they are responding with plenty of new growth.

Just make certain you rule out any pests like mealy bugs, spidermite, etc., too. Good luck!

[WaterWitchin]

I'd be using an AV fertilizer, not an orchid fertilizer. AVs want higher phosphorus. Browning on edges, either minerals/salt buildup from not repotting often enough, chloramines and/or higher TDS in the water, or over-fertilizing. Use pure water as ES says.

And Taylor, if it doesn't have to do with orchids it ALWAYS goes in the Off Topic area. The board is mainly regarding orchids, so that's about the only place plants other than orchids should be posted.

[TaylorEhrhart]

Originally Posted by WaterWitchin

I'd be using an AV fertilizer.

Thank you sir, do you suggest a specific type?

[WaterWitchin]

I just use Schultz 8-14-9, nothing fancy. If you haven't ever viewed it, lots of good info here and lots of fun plants of that genre at The Violet Barn.African violets collectible houseplants - The Violet Barn - African Violets and More

And just as info, I'm not a sir. But you can call me just about anything except don't call me late for dinner.

[TaylorEhrhart]

@WaterWitchin

I am very very sorry.

By the way, the link doesn't work for me.. Is it my problem?

[Roberta]

Originally Posted by TaylorEhrhart

@WaterWitchin

I am very very sorry.

By the way, the link doesn't work for me.. Is it my problem?

I tried it and the link works for me. Maybe try a different browser?

[WaterWitchin]

Just google Violet Barn.