Dying Impatiens - Knowledgebase Question

Argyle, TX
Avatar for Toots214
Question by Toots214
June 26, 1998
Last year my impatiens did extremely well, filling the pots I planted them in very nicely. This year, however, I have not had much success with them. I have planted and replanted them 3 times now in different types of potting soil. A few days after I plant them, many are dying. They look o.k. one day and the next morning I go out and they are limp and laying over in the pot. I try to water every morning if the soil looks dry or the plants look like they're stressed. Am I overwatering? All the pots are in the shade.


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Answer from NGA
June 26, 1998
Nematodes are often the cause of wilting impatiens. However, the rapid onset after planting of your plant's symptoms tends to eliminate nematodes from the list.

Frequent watering in the summer heat can create an ideal environment for disease problems. Take a close up look at the stems near the soil line. You may see a brown, water-soaked area indicating a disease infection. To combat this problem, remove infected plants and water less often giving plants a good soaking when you water.

A final possibility is that a grub or other soil insect is feeding on the roots. Carefully dig underneath an affected plant to see if the culprit is present.

Good luck with your impatiens!

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