The potting mix is the medium in which the plants grow. Most people call it ‘soil’ or ‘dirt’, but usually it does not actually contain either. Most violet growers use what is called a soil-less mix for starting leaves and growing African violets. Most of the soil-less mixes are very similar, being made up of about 60% peatmoss, 20% vermiculite and 20% perlite. There are many good brands available. such as, Pro Mix, Jiffy Mix and Sunshine Mix.