Does my plant need a rest period?

African Violets do not require a dormant season. They can bloom year round if given enough light.

Will a bigger pot help?

Actually, no. African Violets prefer to be slightly root bound to bloom well. A pot that is too large encourages leaf growth instead of flowers.

Why is my African Violet not flowering? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Move the plant closer to a bright window.
Check if you are using a bloom boosting fertilizer.
Ensure the pot is not too large for the root system.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look dark green and reach upward, but no flower buds appear. The plant is stretching to find more energy.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with bright, indirect light. A north or east facing window is usually perfect for consistent blooming.
Wrong fertilizer
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks healthy and green but simply refuses to produce buds. It might be getting too much nitrogen and not enough phosphorus.
What to do: Switch to a fertilizer labeled for African Violets with a higher middle number. Apply it at half strength every time you water.

Other plants that won't flower

Find out what's wrong with your african violet

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

It is normal for a plant to take a short break after a heavy blooming cycle. Worry if it has been more than 6 months without a single flower.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant in bright, indirect light and feed it regularly with a balanced African Violet food.

African Violet: not flowering? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your african violet and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Does my plant need a rest period?: African Violets do not require a dormant season. They can bloom year round if given enough light.
Will a bigger pot help?: Actually, no. African Violets prefer to be slightly root bound to bloom well. A pot that is too large encourages leaf growth instead of flowers.

Why is my African Violet not flowering?