Nope! They Are Not My Violets

Some of you might be wondering if these violets could be mine. Last year, I wrote about my attempt at rooting some leaves off my mother’s (Sonja Behnke Festerling) old Chanticleer African Violet. These 3 in the photo are not my babies. Sadly, they never made it. These are the last of my mom’s violets that her husband Joe has kept going. With no special care at all, they are so beautiful.

I took this photo this week when I stopped in to say hello. Once again, Joe offered me one, and I had to say no. I don’t think I could bear it if I killed yet another of Mom’s violets. Of course, Mom and grandmother (Rose Behnke) are most likely shaking their heads at me and telling me not to give up.

I have yet to find anywhere that carries as many violets as we did at Behnke’s, but we were always known for violets. I am surprised, as they make such a wonderful gift that most anyone can afford. I did see a few at Sun Nurseries, and I know that Thanksgiving Farms carries them. I might buy a few the next time I visit a garden center.

The next time you go to an independent garden center, ask them where their African Violets are. Maybe if enough folks ask for them, they will buy more to sell. Nothing is sweeter than a bench full of violets to choose from.