The Growing Space of Jeff Jackson – Hybridizer of the Imps African Violets
Q Where in the world do you grow your plants?
~ Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Q How Large is your collection?
~ About 100 named varieties, but usually 100+ seedlings at any point.
Q How long have you been growing African Violets?
~ Almost 20 years.
Q Where do you grow your African Violets?
~ Basement, in a special room built for my plants.
Q What type of light do your African Violets receive?
~ All my plants grow under two four foot Cool White fluorescent bulbs.
Q How many hour a day do your plants receive light?
~ 10-14 hours per day – depending on whether or not I have a show coming up.
Q What type of water do you use?
~ Straight from the tap. Edmonton pH is very neutral.
Q What type of fertilizer do you use?
~ Miracle Gro.
Q What watering methods do you use?
~ Wick water and occasionally matt watering
Q What are the temperatures like where you grow?
~ Very Cool. At night 65F, during the day 72F.
Q What is the humidity of your plant area?
~ VERY LOW. It’s a constant struggle to get it anywhere near 30%
~ It’s a challenge to grow and hybridize in small areas – I’ve only ever really had one plant stand, but it can be done. You have to be very selective on what you grow, and how many seedlings make the ‘cut’.
Side view of the plant stand
Jeff Jackson’s work counter (Potting Shed)
If you would like to share your growing space, you can submit it at Show Us Your Growing Space
Would like to know the potting mix you use, and if you mix your own, what is the “recipe.”
Thank you, Annie & Jeff. It is inspiring to have people like you share your experience.
I enjoyed seeing where the Imp’s are born! ;)
And encouraging to see what can be done with limited space!
Don’t stop introducing new plants!