This document provides information about caring for African violets and maintaining house plants. It states that African violets have short leaves and flowers in various colors, and prefer bright indirect light with evenly moist soil. It also notes that most house plants are very forgiving but some, like orchids and African violets, can be difficult. Most house plants are tropical and need warm temperatures between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit at day and 60-65 degrees at night, along with at least 60% humidity from misting or humidity trays. Light levels determine growth rates, and plants need between 50-100 footcandles to simply be maintained, while higher light intensities are needed for growth.

1. Introduction to Horticulture Interiorscaping

2. African Violet Saintpaulia Perennial short leaves on short stems – may be fuzzy Flowers pink, purple, white, salmon Bright indirect light Keep soil evenly moist Temp: 60 -75 Do not allow leaves to get wet Feed monthly, spring – fall Mealy bugs, mites & aphids Propagate by division & leaf cutting

3. Interiorscaping The practice of designing, arranging, and caring for living plants in enclosed environments

4. House Plants Maintenance vs Growth Most people want low maintenance Don’t want growth Foliage must replace itself Most are very forgiving Some are very difficult Orchids African Violets

5. Growing Environment Most are tropical plants, originally found in jungles Need warm temperature Need high humidity Have varying light levels

6. Optimal Temperatures Daytime: 70 ° - 80 ° Nighttime: 60° - 65°

7. Optimal Humidity At least 60% Frequent Misting Use humidity trays

8. Light Requirements Determines growth rate Most important condition Required for photosynthesis Plants with foliage other than green require higher light intensities A typical home or office will be between 50 & 200 footcandles away from windows Plants require 50 to 100 for maintenance (stay alive but not grow)

9. Light intensities Low light: Interior areas away from windows Medium light: Sunny location indirect light High light: Sunny window direct light