Once the top inch of soil dries, water thoroughly, allowing the water to drain out the bottom of the pot. African violets bloom best when crowded. The leaves should hang above the soil but not touch the edge of the pot where salts collect that can injure the plant. If leaf stems lay across a wet rim of the flower pot, they may rot. To prevent this, cover the rim with paraffin or aluminum foil.
African violets do best in bright, indirect light.
Place them in a room that receives about 12 to 15 hours of light a day. A room with a southern exposure is best, or one with large windows facing east or west. If fluorescent lighting is used to supplement sunlight, be sure to provide a minimum of 15 hours of light a day. The lights should be placed within 6 to 12 inches of the plant. African violets prefer daytime temperatures around 70 degrees, and cooler nights of about 65 degrees.