Help - No idea what happened

Watch Reply
More
Mark unread Print Skip to new
jazmine188 Silverado, CA(Zone 9b) May 15, 2006

About a month ago I purchased three 1 gallon impatients and one 1 gallon fushia. I planted them in my new planter outside. They were doing really well. About two weeks ago, all of a sudden all the leaves fell off my fushia and my impatients look sick.

What on earth can cause this?

ANy help you can provide is greatly appreciated.

Post #2282909
Quote
bambamdryad Potsdam, NY(Zone 4a) May 15, 2006

jazmine, you did not mention whether or not the planter is in shade or sun, and how much of either. Most impatiens and fuschias are basically shade-loving plants. If they are in shade, then is it possible that the soil became too water-logged, or lacks enough drainage to allow air in soil? BAM

Post #2282988
Quote
jazmine188 Silverado, CA(Zone 9b) May 16, 2006

The plants receive morning sun and then shade the rest of the day.
I think you are onto something about the soil becoming too water-logged. I planted them just before we had some big rains. I noticed that in some areas of the planter - the water didnt soak in. A few weeks later I noticed the top of the soil had a green like color to it.

I was thinking of making the planter taller so I can put more dirt into it - and then maybe it will create more room for the water to dispurse. Do you think that will help?

Sherri

Post #2286193
Quote
bambamdryad Potsdam, NY(Zone 4a) May 17, 2006

Sherri, it would be better to put more drain holes in the bottom for water to escape, and be sure the planter is up off the surface so it can drain. If it is wooden (since you thought about making it taller) should not be a problem. Also, if you are going to replant it, put a layer of gravel in the bottom before you add your soil. That should correct the problem. Good luck with the next planting! I tend to overwater, myself, so I try to make sure all my containers have good drainage, so I don't kill my own plants! LOL! BAM

Post #2289019
Quote
Equilibrium May 17, 2006

Shoot, I think I just killed off my Impatiens by not allowing for enough drainage. Rats. I hat it when I kill plants.

Post #2289388
Quote
jazmine188 Silverado, CA(Zone 9b) May 17, 2006

Thank you so much. I am glad I asked - I was completely baffled. I have learned a lot.

Sherri

Post #2289664
Quote

Post a Reply to this Thread

Please or sign up to post.
Back to Forum Homepage

More Garden Pests and Diseases Threads

Go to all Garden Pests and Diseases threads
BACK TO TOP