Question: I use a seed-starting mix to make a terrarium. It is extremely light without any fertilizer or moisture-retaining crystals. Would this mix be appropriate for potting my violets too?
Answer: If they are otherwise properly cared for, you could use almost any kind of mix, including this one. However, this is likely not your best choice. The problem with such “seed starting” mixes is that they are very fine, almost dust-like. African violets (and most of the plants we grow) prefer a coarser, more porous, mix. If you do use this mix, you’ll likely have to be more careful with your watering, since it will retain more water. We’d certainly advise NOT to use a self-watering system, which will keep your plant constantly moist. Such a fine mix would almost certainly lead to overwatering your violet and root rot. You’ll also need to repot into fresh soil sooner, since the finer mix will compact and/or break-down faster than a regular potting mix.