4.5" New Guinea Impatiens (Impatiens Hawkeri)
A New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri) is a popular flowering plant that is commonly grown in gardens, containers, and hanging baskets. It is a hybrid species that was developed in the mid-1970s by crossing several wild species of impatiens from New Guinea.
New Guinea impatiens are valued for their large, showy blooms, which can be found in a wide range of colors including pink, purple, orange, red, white, and bi-colors. The blooms are typically larger than those of traditional impatiens and have a more waxy texture. The leaves are also larger and have a glossy appearance.
Here are some tips for caring for New Guinea Impatiens:
Light: New Guinea Impatiens prefer partial shade to full sun. Avoid planting them in full sun, especially in hot climates, as they may wilt or burn. In full shade, they may not produce as many flowers.
Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid getting water on the foliage, as wet leaves can increase the risk of fungal diseases.
Soil: New Guinea Impatiens prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Follow the package instructions carefully, as over-fertilization can damage the plants.
Pruning: Pinch back the tips of the plants to encourage bushy growth and more flowers. Remove spent flowers regularly to promote continued blooming.
Pests and diseases: Watch for signs of pests such as aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies, and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or a targeted insecticide. New Guinea Impatiens can also be prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or botrytis blight, which can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Winter care: In cold climates, New Guinea Impatiens are usually grown as annuals, as they are not cold hardy. However, they can be overwintered indoors as houseplants in a bright, cool location with reduced watering.
Overall, New Guinea Impatiens are easy to care for and can add vibrant color to your garden or patio throughout the growing season. With proper watering, fertilizing, pruning, and pest management, they can thrive and produce abundant blooms.
ATTENTION: Thank you for your interest in our plants! We want to let you know that each plant is unique and may vary slightly in appearance from the photos you see on our website. This is because plants are living organisms that are influenced by many factors, including genetics, environment, and growing conditions. While we make every effort to provide accurate descriptions and photos of our plants, we cannot guarantee that your plant will look exactly the same as the one in the photo. However, we can assure you that we only sell healthy, high-quality plants that are carefully selected and packaged for safe delivery. If you have any questions or concerns about your plant, please don't hesitate to contact us. Thank you for your understanding!