skip to main content

African Violets

Window Tint, (FWIW)

6 years ago

I've struggled since moving to south Florida with growing AVs. Never had a problem with growing them in natural light elsewhere. After trying to pinpoint the problem, I think I have it. Maybe. Unfortunately there's not much I can do about it other than move! Hah! Anyway, I wanted to post this info I found after some serious sleuthing. This was on a site about window tinting:

"In most cases, the film will go totally un-noticed by your houseplants. Occasionally we find that the film is beneficial to certain types of tropical plants, as the window environment that they had been living in was simply a little too warm for their own good. The application of the film created the perfect climate for them to thrive in. The only common exception to this is in the case of African Violets, which need large amounts of ultraviolet light to thrive. Unfortunately for the violets, 3M Architectural films are designed specifically to eliminate UV in order to protect your interior. Moving the violets to an un-treated window for two days a week is usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy."

What's odd, the only AVs that are doing sort of ok are the three Optimara Modesty I have. Although with the heat near the window, there's not a lot of leaf variegation but they look healthy are are blooming.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (2)

AnneCecilia z5 MI
6 years ago
I work in the building supply industry, albeit up north at the opposite side of our country, and nobody puts in windows with "clear" glass anymore, no more than anyone uses single panes of glass these days. Since 1983, windows have been manufactured with insulated glass units that are designed to to save on energy costs of both heating and cooling, and to reduce UV damage to home interiors. I doubt many people on these forums who grow in natural light have plants getting the full spectrum of sunlight through their windows - unless they live in a an old home with the original windows, pre-1980's. Low-E glass is fine for houseplants. Here is an article I found on the web (and there are many) dealing with the subject of modern windows and house plants and explains it quite nicely: does-low-e-glass-affect-houseplants

That said, perhaps you are talking about an aftermarket additional film or tint applied to the inside of the glass? In that case, only the manufacturer of your particular product could tell you how much of the solar spectrum it removes. If you think it is cutting out more than you want for your plants, why not add a small source of artificial light and see if it makes the difference you are looking for?
0
Rosie1949
6 years ago
I agree with Anne. When we got our replacement windows we went from old farmhouse CLEAR windows to Low E glass windows. I was not happy. I wanted CLEAR and dug my heels in the sand. But it was explained to me that doesn't exist anymore. Sooo, Low E it is. If you rely on windows for your plants as I do, supplemental light may be in order. Even a lamp will help. Rosie
0
Related Discussions
Sheer window shades to counteract green tint of low-e glass
Q
Comments (5)
Do you have a style that is already present in the home? Anything will work, but something with a color in it will likely minimize the appearance of the greenish hue. I will also add that while some customer do note the appearance of the float glass green, most admit that they don't notice it after about 2-3 weeks.
...See More
Can you put a window fit/tint on glass block windows to reduce heat?
Q
Comments (3)
Glass block is a tough one because of the lack of smoothness in the glass and the grout lines.
...See More
Window tint on great room windows?
Q
Comments (11)
@D Brown, I had read your initial post as if you were still in planning stage, not as you were looking to retrofit existing windows, so my comments were based on that assumption. I am going to guess that you likely have a dual-silver, moderate SHGC coating on the glass. Pella's go-to coating for their wood products is LoE²-270, but I am not sure what they use on their vinyl units. But in any case a dual-silver coating isn't likely to be adequate for keeping the heat from the setting sun from warming up a room with a window wall facing west. If you decide to go with a film, then if possible select one that is installed on the exterior face of your windows to keep the heat as much as possible outside of your home. Interior installed film will help, but essentially an interior film will reflect solar heat back into the IGU where the existing coating will reflect it back into your home, and so on. That's why films aren't recommended for existing LowE windows, the heat is trapped in the IG airspace and can cause seal failure or even broken glass in extreme cases. Otherwise you have received some great advice above, giving you a number of options to consider.
...See More
Tinted windows in modern house?
Q
Comments (5)
This is a new build in Springfield, MO. It is high with a steep front yard. I don't have pictures. Living room and master roofs slope up 20' high--all windows. Colors are white stack stone, grey metal siding, Charcoal metal roofs. Builder wants BLUE windows. I'm afraid home will look commercial.
...See More

Related Stories

COLOR Beyond White: With Tints, Everybody Wins

By Kelly Porter

Light colors with just a trace of pigment add a subtle ambience. Here’s how to use tints to set a mood without darkening your space

EXTERIORS Window Wizardry: 7 Clever Approaches to Privacy

By Rebecca Naughtin Architect

Do you want more privacy without losing your view or feeling boxed in? Take a look at these creative building solutions

COLOR 9 New Ways With Red, White and Blue

By Jennifer Ott Design

With subtle adjustments to hue, tint, tone or shade, this patriotic color combo works for more than just the U.S. flag

DECORATING GUIDES The Art of the Window: Drapery Solutions for Difficult Types and Shapes

By Jess McBride

Stymied by how to hang draperies on a nonstandard window? Check out these tips for dressing 10 tricky window styles

REMODELING GUIDES Energy-Efficient Windows: Understand the Parts

By Lindsey M. Roberts

You can save money and energy with today's windows — but first you need to know all the window parts and types

WINDOWS Expand Your View with Picture Windows

By Scheer & Co. Interior Design

Minimal, pane-free windows make a clear connection between indoors and out

HOME TECH Is It Curtains for Curtains? Smart Glass Eliminates Window Coverings

Windows can now control light and heat through electricity and high-tech formulations, making blinds and shades optional

GREAT HOME PROJECTS Upgrade Your Windows for Beauty, Comfort and Big Energy Savings

By Mitchell Parker

Bid drafts or stuffiness farewell and say hello to lower utility bills with new, energy-efficient windows

HOUSEKEEPING The Best Way to Get Your Windows Spotlessly Clean

By Bonnie McCarthy

Learn the pros’ tips and tricks for cleaning windows and getting them streak-free

DECORATING GUIDES Solve Privacy Problems With Window Film

By Lindsey M. Roberts

Let the light in and keep prying eyes out with an inexpensive and decorative window film you can apply yourself

Sponsored

More Discussions

violets grow straight up

3

Rooted violet leaves : what now?

4

Little Bugs on my AV

2