Introduction
Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze, also known as Kinole Impatiens, belongs to the family Balsaminaceae. This plant is a native of the Kinole forest in Tanzania, East Africa.Appearance
The Kinole Impatiens is an erect herbaceous plant that grows up to a height of 60 cm. The stem of this plant is green, fleshy, and cylindrical, with scattered hairs. The leaves are alternate, ovate, and have a serrated margin. The upper surface of the leaves is dark green, while the lower surface is lighter. The flowers of the Kinole Impatiens are showy, and they bloom in clusters of 3-7 at the apex of the plant. The flowers are pink and have a small spur at the back, which is filled with nectar.Common Names
Apart from Kinole Impatiens, this plant is also known by several other common names. Some of the common names include Kinole Balsam, Kinole Jewelweed, and Kinole touch-me-not.Uses
The Kinole Impatiens has several medicinal uses. The juice from the stem and leaves of the plant has been traditionally used to treat skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, and ringworm. The plant is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties and has been used to manage kidney disorders. The nectar from the spur of the flower is also believed to have antibacterial properties and has been used to treat infections.Conclusion
Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze, or Kinole Impatiens, is a special plant with a lot of traditional medicinal uses. The plant's showy pink flowers and the fact that it is easy to grow have also made it a popular ornamental plant.Light Requirements
Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze prefers partial to complete shade. The plant thrives well in areas with bright but filtered light, like under a tree canopy or near a window with a sheer curtain.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species prefers cool to tropical temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze falls between 16 to 24 degrees Celsius. Any temperature lower than 10 degrees Celsius or higher than 30 degrees Celsius is unsuitable for its growth.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze should be rich but well-draining. The ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic and fall within the range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant requires soil that can hold moisture but does not become waterlogged. Adding organic matter like compost or peat moss to the soil enhances the fertility and nutrient content, leading to a healthier plant growth.
Cultivation Methods for Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze
Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a site that receives partial to full shade, and it cannot tolerate direct sunlight for an extended period. To plant the impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze, gently remove it from its container, loosen the roots, and plant it in the prepared hole while ensuring you backfill it adequately. Space them 8-12 inches apart from each other to give room for growth.
Watering Needs
Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze prefers moist soil. Ensure that the soil is evenly moist, but not soggy. Water the plant thoroughly at least once a week, or more frequently if the weather is hot, for instance, when the temperature exceeds 90°F. Ensure that you water it enough to reach the roots. Alternatively, you can water it from the bottom by placing the pot in a tray with water, allowing it to take in the water through the soil.
Fertilization
Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze requires a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 for optimal growth. Apply the fertilizer to the plant twice a month, or as often as once a week if they are grown in containers, throughout the growing season, which is usually from spring through fall.
Pruning
Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze is a low maintenance plant that does not require extensive pruning. However, removing the dead flowers and yellowing leaves regularly will help in its growth and appearance. Pinch back the stems occasionally to encourage new growth and bushiness while removing the dead or infected parts. Do not prune it in frost because it might damage the plant, instead wait until the danger of frost has passed.
Propagation of Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze
Impatiens kinoleensis G.M.Schulze, commonly known as the Kinoleaf Balsam, can be easily propagated by two methods, namely division and cuttings.
Propagation by Division
The most reliable and straightforward way to propagate Impatiens kinoleensis is through division of the parent plant. The plant should be carefully dug up and gently pulled apart into sections, making sure that each section contains a healthy stem and a full root system. The divided sections should then be planted in separate containers or garden beds. This method is best carried out during spring or early summer, as the active growth phase ensures that the plants will quickly establish themselves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Impatiens kinoleensis can also be propagated by using stem cuttings. To do this, select a healthy stem from the parent plant, and make a clean cut just below a leaf node. Remove any leaves or flowers from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder or gel. Plant the cutting in a small container of moist, well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm, bright place with indirect sunlight. The cutting should develop roots within 2-4 weeks, and can be transplanted to a larger container once it has established itself.
Disease and Pest Management for Impatiens Kinoleensis G.M.Schulze
Impatiens Kinoleensis G.M.Schulze, commonly known as the Kinabalu balsam, is a plant species native to the Kinabalu Park in Sabah, Malaysia. While the plant is known for its ornamental value, it may also fall prey to a range of diseases and pests if proper care is not taken.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Impatiens Kinoleensis is powdery mildew. The disease manifests in the form of white, powdery spots on the leaves, leading to stunted growth and eventual death of the plant. Root rot is another fungal disease that affects these plants, primarily caused due to soil-borne pathogens that thrive in overly damp soil. This disease causes the plant to wilt, and the stems turn black and rot.
Pest Management
Impatiens Kinoleensis is also prone to attacks from various pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves and stems, leaving them distorted and discolored. One of the effective ways to prevent a pest infestation is to maintain proper hygiene by cleaning the plant regularly and providing adequate ventilation. You can also use natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap to control these pests.
Disease Management
The key to preventing disease in Impatiens Kinoleensis is to maintain good plant hygiene. To prevent powdery mildew, you can ensure adequate spacing between plants and avoid crowding them. Additionally, you can spray the plant with a solution of baking soda and water or fungicides such as neem oil or potassium bicarbonate. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is not watered excessively, and the soil is well-draining. You can also apply a fungicide to the soil to prevent the disease from spreading.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can help ensure that your Impatiens Kinoleensis G.M.Schulze plants thrive and remain healthy for years to come.
