Fixit: Blooming violets

Star Tribune

Last update: April 7, 1997 - 11:00 PM

Q: We grow African violets in our home. We have four or five different kinds. Some of them won't flower. Why?

A: Although some older varieties don't bloom as often as some newer varieties, it's usually not difficult to get African violets to bloom, said Deborah L. Brown, extension horticulturist at the Dial U Insect and Plant Information Center at the University of Minnesota.

When the plant is growing well and receiving enough light, blooming rarely is a problem. Lush, dark green leaves with no flower buds usually mean there is inadequate light, Brown said.

In winter, place the violets in a sunny window. In late spring and summer, morning sun is best for violets, but be sure to filter the sunlight with sheer curtains or partially closed blinds if the plants are in south or west windows.

Keep your plants healthy with regular applications of mild African violet fertilizer. Water the soil thoroughly whenever the surface feels dry to the touch.

Q: Are chains on tires legal in Minnesota? I don't see them used.

A: Chains are legal, but studded tires are not.

Q: What's the difference between beet sugar and cane sugar? Is one preferred over the other for baking or table use? Is there a difference in sweetness? What's the difference between brown and white sugar?

A: There is no difference between the two sugars once they are made into table sugar, said Joseph L.S. Terrell, director of public affairs for the American Sugar Alliance in Washington, D.C. The sugars are used in the same manner, and the results are the same for baking and in table use.

Brown sugar is refined white sugar with some of the molasses from cane sugar added back in.

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