Ads in the category

"IMPATIENS"

Definition - What is "Balsam":

Balsam (Impatiens) is a diverse genus of flowering plants that includes many species and varieties with different forms and flower colors.

Annual or perennial plant:

Most balsam species are annual plants, but some can be perennial in warm climates.

Classification - Family and Genus:

Balsam (Impatiens) belongs to the family Balsaminaceae.

Number of species:

There are over 1000 species of balsam.

Sunlight preference:

Balsams prefer partial shade and shade, although some species can tolerate some morning or evening sun exposure.

Tolerance to shade:

Balsams thrive in shady and semi-shady conditions.

Drought tolerance:

They require consistent moisture and do not tolerate prolonged drought.

Tolerance to overwatering:

Balsams do not tolerate overwatered soil.

Flowering period - which months:

Balsams typically bloom from May to September, depending on climatic conditions.

Soil requirements - pH level:

They prefer fertile, moist soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The optimal pH for balsams usually falls within the range of 6 to 7.

How to plant - presence of root collar, best planting locations:

Balsams should be planted at a depth with the root collar level with the soil surface. It's best to plant them in shaded or semi-shaded areas with moisture.

Spring care, including fertilization:

In spring, you can fertilize balsams with a balanced fertilizer for flowering plants.

Summer Care, including fertilization:

During the summer, it's important to maintain consistent soil moisture and regularly apply fertilizer.

Autumn Care, including fertilization:

In the fall, plants may require less watering, but you can continue fertilization if growth persists.

Winter Care, including preparing the plant for winter:

Balsams are not frost-resistant, so they do not overwinter in open ground.

Cold Tolerance in Numbers:

The minimum temperature they can tolerate is typically around -1°C, but this can vary depending on the specific species.

Pruning:

Pruning spent flowers stimulates new blooming. Trim old, leafless stems.

Disease Treatment and Common Diseases:

Balsams can be susceptible to diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. Treatment with fungicides can help combat these diseases.

Pest Treatment and Common Pests:

Pests that can attack balsams include thrips, whiteflies, and leaf-eating insects. Regular inspection of plants and timely treatment with insecticides can help protect them from pests.

Natural Habitat:

Balsams naturally grow in tropical and subtropical regions, as well as in temperate zones as annual plants.

Propagation:

Balsams can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or by dividing the root system.

Additional Information:

Balsams are known for their vibrant floral displays and ease of care, making them popular garden plants for beddings and containers. They are also used in landscape design to create colorful compositions. Balsams come in various sizes and flower colors, allowing you to choose the right variety for your gardening needs.