Violets are not especially susceptible to insects, etc. There are a few, however, that growers eventually encounter. Most pests are brought into a collection on a new plant. For this reason it is wise to isolate new additions to your otherwise clean collection until you are sure it has no hitchhikers. Prevention is easier than cure. 

    Three of the most common ailments violets may get are: (1) Blossom Thrips - these are tiny, slender, fast moving insects which chew on the pollen and the blossom petals. Spray twice a week for several weeks directly into the blooms and on the foliage with either Safer Insecticidal Soap (4 1/4 teaspoons per pint of warm water ) or with Neem Oil (2 1/2 teaspoons per pint of warm water). (2) Mealy bugs: white cotton-like insects that don’t move. Sticky and stringy when touched. Q-Tips and alcohol are almost useless. Spray weekly for a month with Malathion (1/4 teaspoon per quart of warm water) or Safer Insecticidal Soap (4 1/4 teaspoon per pint of warm water). (3) Powdery Mildew: a fuzzy mold-like growth on flowers and leaves. It develops where growing conditions are cool, moist, and still. Spray once or twice with a system fungicide (1/4 teaspoon. per pint of warm water), or mix 5 drops Physan 20 in 1 cup warm water and spray the entire plant both the affected and the unaffected areas. Phyton 27 is a new fungicide. It leaves no residue. Improve air circulation to prevent mildew from redeveloping. 

    To really clean the foliage on a violet gently spray the leaves with a mixture of 1/2 teaspoon of white vinegar and 5 drops any brand hand wash dish detergent in 1 cup very warm water. Pat dry with a folded paper towel or use a grooming brush.

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