Home	Strange Wonderful Things Rare and exotic plants & seeds

Impatiens flaccida

Getting started -- You may plant the seeds in individual, small containers.  Or you plant them all in a single container, but it may be difficult to transplant them later.

For soil, a good mix is 2 parts high-quality potting soil to 1 part perlite (or pumice rock).

Fill the pots with soil and water it so it is uniformly moist, but not soggy. Place a seed on top of each pot, and gently press it so that the seed is partly in the soil, but still able to receive light, which helps the seeds germinate.

Ensure that the surface soil doesn't dry out. A propagation dome or plastic bag may be used to maintain humidity, but leave it open slightly to allow some fresh air in.  The seeds need some light to germinate, such as a fluorescent bulb that is a hand's length away. The ideal temperature for germination is about 65 to 70 degrees F (18-21°C).  If you use a heat mat, check the soil temperature to ensure that the roots don't overheat.

The seeds should start germinating in 3 to 5 weeks, but allow up to 8 weeks for any slow ones to sprout.  Cooler temperatures may slow germination.

Lighting -- This Impatiens prefers bright shade, or filtered sunlight. Avoid prolonged direct sun, unless it's early-morning sun.

Transplanting -- When your plants are 2 months old, you may gently transfer them to a larger pot.  Water the soil first, and avoid letting the soil ball break apart. After transplanting, avoid packing the soil down, and do not fertilize the first week.

Watering -- Try to keep the soil moist, but not soggy, most of the time. You may use a moisture meter probe to monitor the moisture levels down in the root zone.

Climate -- This Impatiens prefers mild temperatures.  In warmer areas, give it plenty of shade and moisture. Protect from freezing temperatures. The humidity should be above about 40%. If your room humidity is too low, consider using an ultrasonic room humidifier, which you can buy at places like Home Depot and thrift shops.

Fertilizing -- Your Impatiens has average fertilizer needs. Feed about every 3-4 weeks during periods of active growth using an all-purpose fertilizer. It's normal for older leaves to occasionally turn yellow and drop, but if it's excessive, the plant may need more fertilizer, particularly nitrogen. Also check that the soil isn't too dry down in the root zone.

Pests to watch for -- aphids, scale (dark disks on the stems), mealy bugs.  Be careful when choosing chemical remedies, because some may harm the plant.

Have fun growing them!

Strange Wonderful Things