How to divide the ball of Gloxinia

Tuber selection

In winter, the leaves of Gloxinia will gradually die and then enter a dormant period. At this time, the tubers will be dug out and stored in a cool and dry environment.

When propagating Gloxinia by dividing bulbs, it is best to use three to four year old tubers and propagate them after the winter.

Pot soil selection

The potting soil is generally prepared with 1 part perlite, 1 part river sand, 3 parts leaf mold and a small amount of decomposed, dried and crushed poultry manure. First, pad the holes at the bottom of the pot with fragments, and then cover them with a layer of coarse sand or coarse coal slag. This will facilitate drainage and ventilation and prevent tuber rot.

Specific steps

First, pour a small amount of water on the tuber to encourage it to sprout. When the sprout grows to about 5 cm, take out the tuber and cut the tuber into several pieces with a knife, each with a bud.

Apply wood ash to the cut to prevent infection and rot, then plant the tuber in potting soil.

After planting, water it once and thoroughly. Then water it less frequently and keep the soil moist. Avoid watering too much. Then you can observe the growth of the gloxinia.

Maintenance after ball distribution

After the African violet starts to grow normally, start applying decomposed thin liquid fertilizer, and then apply fertilizer every 7 days or so.

Pay attention to even watering, not too dry or too wet. If it is too wet, the roots and leaves will easily rot.

The temperature during the flowering period can be kept at around 15℃. After the flowers fade, the pedicels should be cut off in time to prevent nutrient consumption.