The Plant: The popular summer-flowering outdoor plant, Impatiens walleriana, has some bolder more vibrant cousins, the New Guinea hybrids.
These are larger, fleshier plants with sturdy stems and
bronze-green foliage. The flowers are larger than the Impatiens
walleriana, and of a more intense colour, deep red or scarlet,
shocking pink, jazzy orange, or white.
Its needs: New Guinea Busy Lizzie hybrids require strong
light but avoid direct sun over summer. Plants will survive in
semi-shade but will quickly become straggly with poorer
flowering.
A rich potting mix should be used, with regular watering over summer, but minimal watering during winter. Warmth and humidity essential for growth. Mist spray foliage, but not flowers, in hot dry weather.
Care: Use a
season-long feed in spring to promote good flowering,
water regularly to maintain turgid appearance. Pinch back early
new growth to make a bushier plant. If an Impatiens has become
too straggly cut back to approximately 5cm from base. New growth
should appear a couple of weeks later. It is easy to grow the
New Guinea hybrids from cuttings. Watch for Botrytis, (grey mould), aphids, and
red spider mite.
Good for: The Impatiens, whether the smaller outdoor variety,
which can be grown in a cool conservatory or porch, or the
larger New Guinea hybrids, all make ideal gifts. The vibrancy of
the flowers against the intense lush foliage of the New Guinea
hybrids make these plants quite spectacular. Easy to maintain
and uplifting.
New Guinea Busy Lizzies (Impatiens hawkeri), known for their vibrant colors and lush foliage, are a joy to grow. Here's how to successfully plant and grow them from seed:
Necessary ItemsWith the right care, your New Guinea Busy Lizzies can provide a splash of color in your garden or home for many months!
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