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We Want Your Input: How Are Your Impatiens?

August 14, 2013  |  annuals, insects
Impatien Leaf

We've had some real successes in the garden (really enjoying the Mariachi peppers and beautiful eggplants) along with a few struggles (tomatoes not ripening, like everyone of you, and nimblewill creeping into the lawn-more on that next week).

     What we have not been dealing with, which was a concern, is Impatiens Downy Mildew.  Last year, the disease affected over half of the country, although Ohio was not among the worst areas.  It was predicted to potentially spread and worsen this year, but in fact we have only had a few reports of an infection yet this season and nationwide the incidences have been dramatically less.  Does this mean there is nothing to worry about?  No, not entirely: the disease is still out there and the reason for the decline is unclear; it could be weather related, or increased awareness helped slow the spread. 

     We want your input: what has been your experience?  How are your impatiens doing this year?  Did you plant something else to be cautious and how did you like it?   Please leave a comment here to share your experience on the subject.  If you think you may have a problem, bring in a sample in a sealed ziplock bag and we'll help you decide what it is.