Probably nothing bought from a big box store (to be honest). A very very lite soil containing lots of perlite. I really prefer an AV specialist soil, but you could find something maybe like Sunshine mix and add extra perlite. No idea what you might find at your local store though, it does very.

ProMix (plus perlite, if not ProMix HP) if you can get it. The Lowe’s near my sister sells it!

To separate, I’d start by gently knocking the plant(s) out of the pot first and clear away lower dead/bad leaves to see what you actually have... two plants or two crowns. I just use a sharp kitchen knife to cut/divide

I know a very experienced grower who uses Miracle Grow and mixes in 50% perlite. I've successfully used Optimara's AV mix, ordered on-line from Selective Gardener.

I use MiracleGrow and perlite equal amounts. Works just fine. I would take it out of the pot first, shake off as much old soil as you can, and if you cannot gently pull the violet apart then yes, use a razor and when you get thru the trunk then pull the roots apart further. Take off all the old dead leaves and maybe a row or two of bottom leaves. Repot and make sure you put it into a baggie to recover. Good luck! Rosie

I’ll attempt this this weekend when I get some fresh potting soil and another pot to plant the second one in.

thanks all

And cover the rooting cutting with a baggie...