Origin and Common Names
Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. The plant is native to Madagascar, where it was first discovered in the year 1908. This species of Impatiens is commonly known as the Madagascar balsam or the Joachim impatiens.
Appearance
Impatiens joachimii is a perennial plant that grows up to a height of 40-60cm. The leaves of the plant are ovate in shape, and the edges are irregularly serrated. The flowers of the Joachim impatiens are delicate, pinkish-lilac in color with dark purple-red spots in the center, and shaped like a funnel. The flowers grow in clusters, and they are about 3cm in diameter. The Joachim impatiens flowers from July to September, producing seeds in the fall.
Uses
Impatiens joachimii is grown as an ornamental plant in the gardens for its beautiful flowers. It is usually grown in containers as well as border gardens, where it adds a pop of color with its delicate pinkish-lilac flowers. The Joachim impatiens is known for its ease of care, making it a popular choice among novice gardeners. Additionally, the plant is also used in traditional medicine in Madagascar for treating skin irritations, burns, and insect bites.
Light Requirements
Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze prefers to grow in partial to full shade conditions. It can also tolerate bright indirect light but direct sun can cause damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze growth is between 18 to 24°C (64 to 75°F). The plant can tolerate temperature fluctuations to some extent, but it is sensitive to extreme cold or heat.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze should be well-draining, rich in organic matter and nutrient-rich. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.2. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged. Addition of compost or aged manure to the soil can improve the growth and health of the plant.
Cultivation methods for Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze
Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze is a plant species that thrives well in a sheltered position under the partial shade of trees or other plants that filter the sunlight. You can cultivate it in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH, preferably between 5.5 and 6.2. This species enjoys high humidity levels, and it does best when you grow it in a controlled environment like a greenhouse or indoors.
Watering needs for Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze
The plant requires soil that remains moist but well-draining. This means that you should not let the soil dry out, but you should also avoid overwatering the plants because this can lead to root rot. When watering, ensure that the soil absorbs the water by making slow, deep, and thorough watering. Water the Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze frequently when the weather is hot, and ensure that you do not water the leaves as this can increase the risk of mold and fungal growth.
Fertilization for Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze
Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze likes fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. You can start fertilizing the plant when it reaches two weeks after germination. After that, it is recommended to feed the plant with fertilizer once a month. However, when growing the plant in containers or indoors, use a slow-release fertilizer, as this can provide necessary nutrients to the plant gradually over time.
Pruning of Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze
Pruning of the plant is essential in maintaining the shape of the plant and promoting the overall health of the plant. You can remove yellow or brown leaves, stems, or any dead parts of the plant to prevent the spread of any disease or pests. Prune the plant during the growing season to encourage new growth. However, avoid cutting the stem too low, and ensure that the cutting tools are sharp and clean to avoid damaging the plant and introducing unwanted diseases.
Propagation of Impatiens Joachimii G.M.Schulze
Impatiens Joachimii G.M.Schulze, also known as Joachim’s Impatiens, is a beautiful flowering plant that can be propagated by different methods:
Propagation by Seeds
The most common method of propagating Impatiens Joachimii is by seeds. The seeds can be collected from the matured seed pods of the plant. Dry the pods first before collecting the seeds. Once you have obtained seeds, sow them in a well-draining potting mix, which should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Ensure that the seeds are covered with a layer of the potting mix. Place the pot in a warm spot that is in partial shade. Germination typically occurs within two to three weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Impatiens Joachimii can also be propagated through cuttings. Choose healthy stems from the plant, preferably those that have not yet flowered. Cut the stem using a clean and sharp pair of shears. Strip off the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip it in a rooting hormone. Plant the stem in a potting mix made up of equal parts peat moss and perlite. Water the propagation container and cover it with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity levels. Place the container in a well-lit but indirect light location until roots develop.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Impatiens Joachimii. This method is best employed when the plant has outgrown its current container or location. Remove the plant from its container and carefully separate the stems and roots to form individual plants. Replant the divided plants in well-prepared soil in a shady location and water thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Impatiens Joachimii G.M.Schulze
Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze, commonly known as Joachim's touch-me-not, is a low-growing and shade-loving flower. However, like any other plant, they are also susceptible to diseases and pests. Therefore, it is essential to know the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them. Below are the details of disease and pest management for Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause the leaves and stems of the plant to appear dusty white. The fungus thrives in humid conditions, and its spores can easily spread through the air. It can be managed by removing infected plant parts and using fungicides.
Another disease that affects the plant is impatiens necrotic spot virus. It is a viral disease that can cause yellowing, wilting, and necrosis of plant parts. The virus spreads through thrips insects that feed on the plant's sap. It can be managed by controlling thrips populations and removing infected plants to prevent the spread of the virus.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affect Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze is aphids. Aphids are sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing and curling of leaves. They can also transmit viruses from infected plants to healthy ones. They can be managed by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Another pest that affects the plant is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny sap-sucking pests that can cause yellowing and browning of leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a suitable insecticide.
Root rot is also a common problem that affects the plant. It is caused by the fungus Phytophthora, which thrives in damp soil and can cause the plant's roots to rot. It can be managed by improving drainage and avoiding over-watering the plant.
Preventive Measures
Here are some preventive measures that can help in managing diseases and pests in Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze:
- Plant the flowers in well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
- Avoid over-watering the plant, as it can make the soil damp and promote fungal growth.
- Provide adequate air circulation to the plant to prevent humidity and fungal growth.
- Clean gardening tools before and after use to avoid spreading diseases from one plant to another.
- Monitor the plant regularly to detect any signs of diseases or pests and take immediate action to prevent them from spreading.
By following these preventive measures and using appropriate management techniques, it is possible to keep the Impatiens joachimii G.M.Schulze healthy and beautiful.
