| Description: |
One of the plants from which the spectacular New Guinea impatiens were bred, and with the vigorous growth and large flowers that now mark those plants. |
| Environment: |
Suitable for the home or a greenhouse |
| Growing Ease: |
Requires a little extra care |
| Lighting Needs: |
Does best in full sunlight coming from the South/East/West |
| Soil Type: |
A GOOD general purpose potting soil (a soil that retains water yet drains well) will suffice. Check purchased soil to see that it is well aerated and add sand or perlite and peat moss if it seems to pack too tightly. Give the plants a chance to settle in before going back to whatever fertilization program has been successful for you. If you want to mix your own take:
1 part garden soil, 1 part coarse sand or perlite and 1 part peat or humus (leaf mold).
Always use a pot with a hole.
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| Watering: |
Keep the soil evenly moist and use rainwater if you can. Use warm water. |
| Fertilizer: |
Feed every two weeks during the spring and summer with a water soluble fertilizer. |
| Plant Pests: |
Prone to whitefly, aphids and spider mites. Always inspect any new plant for pests before introducing it to your home or greenhouse. |
| Propagation: |
Seeds and tip cuttings
in the spring through late summer.
It is best to propagate any type of cuttings or seeds in a mixture of moist peat and perlite. Cover the pot and plant with a plastic bag secured by a rubber band to prevent the moisture from escaping. Place in indirect sunlight or under a fluorescent light. Repot in its regular mix after it has been growing for a while.
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| Gardening Tips & Care: |
Mist occasionally with warm water but not on the flowers. Grow new plants every spring from cuttings.
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