Streptocarpus ionanthus
African violets like evenly moist soil, but their crowns rot if kept wet. Many growers water from the bottom so water never lands on the leaves.
Short answer: for an African violet, with the starting settings below (a 4 inch pot with a drainage hole), check the soil about every 2 to 3 days in spring and summer and every 3 to 5 days in winter, and water when the top half inch of soil is just drying out. Give it a full drink until water runs out the bottom.
Your answer
Water when the soil reaches this point
How it shifts through the year
Check the soil about every 2 to 3 days in spring and summer and water only when the top half inch of soil is just drying out. In winter, growth slows and soil stays wet longer, so expect roughly 3 to 5 days between checks. Always confirm with your finger first.
Water slowly until water runs out the drainage holes, then empty the saucer within an hour. The right amount depends on pot size, so go by drainage and how dry the soil is, not a fixed measure. Many growers water from the bottom so water never lands on the leaves or crown.
Either works if you keep water off the leaves and crown. Bottom watering is popular because it avoids spots and rot at the crown.
Both thirst and rotted roots cause limp leaves. Feel the soil. If it is dry, water. If it is wet, check the roots.
Tools that help
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Related guides
Estimates use rules of thumb. Always confirm with your finger: push it about an inch into the soil before you water.