One of the most popular annuals to plant each spring are Impatiens. For many, it’s a tradition to give a basket of Impatiens as a Mother’s Day gift, while for others it is the easiest way to enjoy color in their gardens all summer – even in the shade. If you grew impatiens last year you may have noticed that they got black spots and turned yellow. Most likely it was not your fault, nor was it the fault of the retailer or even the grower. Impatiens walleriana, the common impatiens and number one selling annual in America today, are the victims of a new nationwide disease called Downy Mildew.

Impatiens infected with Downy Mildew

Here’s some important information:

• Only Impatiens walleriana and Rosebud Impatiens are prone to Downy Mildew. The New Guinea Impatiens and other plants are not at risk.
• Downy Mildew resides in the soil, but the spores are air borne. If your neighbor’s plants become diseased, it’s likely your Impatiens will, too.
• Impatiens grown in hanging baskets are less likely to get this disease.
• You can attempt to prevent the disease with a fungicide such as Neem or Copper sprays, but once a plant is infected, there is no known cure.
• To reduce the likelihood of disease, provide good air circulation & don’t overcrowd your impatiens. Try not to get the leaves wet when watering, water from below and early in the day.
• If any impatiens shows signs of the disease immediately remove it – dirt and all. Do not compost any of it, the plant and soil are now diseased.
• Mahoney’s grow our own Impatiens locally under careful scrutiny, all have been treated – however this is a very invasive disease – Mahoney’s provides no warranty on Impatiens walleriana.

There are several excellent colorful, shade-loving alternatives that are not affected by Downy Mildew: