Why Impatiens Flowers Wilt?

Healthy impatiens shouldn't show signs of wilting.

Impatiens is the name of an annual flower that produces colorful blooms. Some species may experience wilting leaves and blooms. Wilting is often the first indication that something is wrong. Learning about the possible reasons behind wilting is the first step to fixing it.

Considerations

Viruses, such as impatiens necrotic spot virus and tomato spotted wilt virus, may cause leaves to wilt. Signs include leaf spotting followed by wilting. Affected plants should be removed to prevent the virus from spreading to other plants in the garden.

Significance

Wilting of impatiens indicates that the flowers are in need of water. Overwatering, however, also may cause wilted leaves. Provide enough water for the soil to be moist throughout, but not so much as to leave roots sitting in soggy soil.

Warning

Excessive heat and sunlight may cause impatiens to wilt. While some species of impatiens tolerate full sun, others prefer shade. Similarly, some tolerate morning sun, but most benefit from afternoon shade.

References

• UMassAmherst: UMassExtension: Impatiens Necrotic Spot Virus and Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Impatiens - A Popular but Over-used Annual

Resources

• Clemson University Extension: Impatiens
• Alabama Cooperative Extension Service: Impatiens-A Winner in Shade
• Iowa State University Extension: Growing Impatiens