Customer Reviews

African Violets: Gifts from Nature

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This is a very thorough book and it will answer probably any question you'll ever have about African violets. It covers anything from potting mixture composition to lighting, watering, pests (covered to the extent to give you nightmares), the various methods of propagation, hybridizing, and genetics. Because it gets into the science of growing African violets, it is probably not for the person who has a passing interest in them. However, I am one of those who love African violets and am relieved to have a source to go to get all of my questions answered.

It's a big book, and reminds me of a textbook in size and weight. It has 314 pages and 29 color photos.

Robey's book provides an excellent overview of both the history and present culture of African violets, including such areas as hybridizing. For as popular as African violets are, there are few books that focus on them, and Robey's is one of the best. I would recommend it for the library of any serious AV grower.

I've read the comment that "this book could be the textbook for an African Violet course at your local community college." That's not an exaggeration. Although some techniques and supplies have evolved that are not covered in this book, the underlying science and practical applications are so good that it is not really dated. The knowledge you gain can guide you in using the newer technologies for your violets, streptocarpus, and any other indoor bloomers.

Although I would happily pay Mr. Robey whatever he wanted for a copy, this is not an option, so I obtained one through interlibrary loan and photocopied it (carefully!) page by page. If you can afford it, order it used from the Marketplace. If you decide to go into model railroading instead, you can always get a nice price when you resell the book!