Hello W.,

Yes and yes.

Violets have different body types - some of them have a genetical programming to have longer petioles (leaf stalks), some shortened. Low light will make them grow longer and stertch towards the light, high light - shorter and hug the pot. So - the spindliness can be both conditions and genetics.

If it is conditions - the new leaves will form a much more pleasing rosette, the old leaves - live their life span - about 1 year = the way how they appear now. Well grown plants look happy and pretty anyway - Dollies and Twiggies - ;-)).

The plants from Walmart actually come from the growing facility in a very attractive shape. They are forced to bloom by a controlled light, humidity, fertilizers. It is when they are exposed to the real world - they deteriorate fast.

Good Luck

Irina

Hi,
The second plant could probably be improved by repotting. Take the smaller leaves off from the outer row as a minimum. I would probably bring the plant down to the 6 leaves of the crown and try letting it grow out again.
Fred in NJ

In response to letting the second one grow out again. If I cut off the really long outer leaves of my av. do I need to trim down the root ball too? And can anyone tell me what I should do with the second one. {{gwi:368477}}{{gwi:368478}}

Nymiekat, check out Rachel's site; there are (is?) *tons* of info, with pictures! I like pictures. She can show you what to do.

Korina

Here is a link that might be useful: Rachel's Reflections