The houseplant Waller's balsam (or, as it is sometimes called, Waller's) is a herbaceous perennial, and in the garden it is grown as an annual. The leaves are simple, with glands located at the base. The flowers are actinomorphic and can grow singly or in inflorescences. There are five stalks, often in some color. One of the receptacles is elongated into a corolla. The petals grow freely from each other or grow together in pairs. One unpaired petal is located opposite the spur. The filaments unite and form an operculum, which falls off during ripening. This ensures cross-spraying.

The gynoecium is formed by 5 carpels with a short style with stigmas in an amount from one to five. The fruit is a rather juicy capsule, which has the property of suddenly opening with the help of five twisting flaps.

Appearance

Balsam is distinguished by its fleshy, thick stems. The leaves may be entire or have toothed edges, usually oval in shape. Their color comes in all shades of green and even purple-bronze. Depending on the type of flower, the leaves can be 9-12 cm long. The flower fruits represent the entire color scheme: from simple white to a wide variety of two-color.

On a note. Indoor views Impatiens is characterized by the attractiveness of its flowers. U of this plant The flowering period is very long. Withered buds are replaced only by blossoming ones, and still closed ones are on the way.

Below you can see a photo of Waller's balsam flowers.

Rules for care in indoor and outdoor conditions

An attractive but capricious plant requires special attention:

• Remember that balsam does not tolerate direct sunlight, but it requires at least 3-5 hours a day of good lighting.
• If during the warm season you decide to take the flower out into the open air, make sure that it is not exposed to precipitation.
• Avoid hypothermia.
• In spring and early autumn, watering should be abundant and regular; in summer it can even be daily. In winter, you need to regulate the frequency of watering yourself: so that the soil is not dry, but so that the water does not stagnate in the pan.
• The leaves of this plant will thank you for spraying (but this can only be done at temperatures above 20 degrees), otherwise they may repay you by simply falling off.
• From May to September, balsam requires fertilizer once every two weeks.
• If you bought a flower in a store, immediately transplant it into a smaller pot. This will give impetus to flowering.
• Do not forget to also get rid of faded buds - they interfere with the growth of new ones.
• Before frost, cover the balsam bushes, and open them again when the weather gets warmer.
• If your flowers are planted in pots, simply bring them into the hallway or veranda.
• The best method of propagation is cuttings.
• The seeds of the “impatient” plant should be collected after the capsule itself has turned yellow. This procedure must be carried out extremely carefully, since at this time the seeds become very “vulnerable”.

Impatiens is a difficult plant, and some problems may arise during its cultivation. We'll tell you how to deal with the difficulties that arise.

Features of propagation and planting

Cuttings

Most in a simple way propagation of balsam is by cuttings. It is recommended to do this in summer or warm spring or autumn. They take root well within one to two weeks, within summer period the cuttings have time to grow extensively.

Seeds can retain their planting properties for up to 8 years, but it is better to grow seedlings from fresh seeds. It is recommended to start sowing in mid-March.

Waller's balsam. Growing from seeds:

Diseases and pests

All plants can be subject to some kind of disease or pest attack. And balsam is no exception. In order not to destroy the plant, you need to quickly understand what it is infected with and immediately begin to act.

• The leaves are falling- what to do? This may be caused by cool air or poor lighting.
  1. Move the pot to a warmer and brighter place. The problem should go away.
  2. If not, check the soil for dryness. Maybe you don't water the flower regularly.
• Why Are the leaves curling? This is a sign of mite damage to the plant. Remove the infected parts and treat the remaining parts with a disinfectant solution.
• The leaves turn yellow. Yellowing indicates a lack of hydration. Spray the leaves often, but try not to get it on the flowers themselves.
• The buds are falling- what is the reason?
  1. This happens when watering is too frequent or infrequent. Adjust its frequency.
  2. Another reason for the falling of buds may be adaptation to new living conditions.
• The leaves are drying– how to fight? This is a reaction to lack of moisture. Try increasing the frequency of watering.
• The stems are stretched too much. This happens when the plant does not have enough light, and the air, on the contrary, is too warm. To avoid this problem, move the flower to a brighter and cooler place.
• Impatiens blooms inactively.
  1. Weak flowering indicates a lack of light and nutrients.
  2. Another root of the problem is hypothermia. Increase the dose of light and fertilizer - the plants will again begin to delight you with their flowers.
• The leaves wither and fall off– the reason? This happens if the plant is attacked by root rot due to excessive watering. Due to the constantly wet soil, the roots began to rot. To get rid of this, transplant flowers into new soil, while rinsing the roots, and then adjust the frequency and abundance of watering. It is better to do this when the soil is completely dry.
• A spider mite attacked. This disease is characterized by the appearance yellow spots on the leaves. Over time, the pigmentation will increase and cover the entire leaf blade.
  1. To prevent ticks from spreading, remove damaged areas.
  2. If the specks are still small, you can treat the leaves with a soap solution.
  3. To avoid reappearance against this pest, spray the plants so that the air around them is not dry.
• The appearance of a whitefly on a flower. This insect can be recognized by the yellowing of the leaves and sticky secretions on them, both on the inside and on the back side leaf. For prevention and treatment, treat balsam with products based on potassium soap.
• When thrips attacks. This disease can be recognized by the deformation of young leaves, the appearance of spots on flowers and a brown color along the edges of the petals. To combat thrips, you can only remove the affected flowers.

So, we have told you the main thing about Waller’s balsam, now you know how to care for it and how to solve possible problems.

Thanks to its undoubted advantages - high decorative qualities, versatility of use and unpretentiousness - Waller's balsam has found wide application for the production of potted products and containers. Modern hybrids compact, do not stretch even with fluctuations in temperature and humidity, which allows you to increase the yield per 1 m² when growing seedlings. In addition, the seeds of these hybrids have high (up to 95%) and simultaneous germination.

Due to the huge variety of flower colors and the ability to grow in both shade and sun, Waller's Impatiens ( Impatienswallerianasynholstii, sultani) "classic" plant for hanging baskets OK. In flower beds and containers, it is relatively tolerant of hot, dry weather. Particularly attractive to buyers are varieties and hybrids with double flowers, propagated by both seeds and cuttings.

Varieties and hybrids

Hybrids seed propagation vary in height, bush shape, flower size and shape, and also in relation to light. There are hybrids that grow well in full sun, as well as more shade-tolerant and intermediate varieties. In catalogs, seed propagation hybrids are most often divided into non-double and double. Hybrids with strongly double flowers, as well as non-double ones with an ampelous stem, are propagated vegetatively.

Non-double hybrids

F1 AccentSeries– well-branched plants 25–30 cm high with large flowers. They remain unbeatable for use in large containers and flower beds because... cover the soil well and bloom profusely. However, when excessive humidity, in strong shade and with excess nitrogen, plants stretch. The series includes many single- and multi-color colors, but their number varies from year to year.

F1 AccentPremiumSeries– plants in 9 colors with large, high-quality flowers and vigorous growth in the garden. They are uniform in terms of flowering time and have more pronounced branching. More suitable for 10 cm pots and large containers. Resistant to cool temperatures.

F1 advantageSeries– a very compact (23 cm high) series of plants in 10 colors, resistant to high temperatures. Coloring is better preserved in full and partial shade.

F1 CamposSeries– compact, early and abundantly flowering, well-branched, evenly planted plants, resistant to high temperatures. The series includes plants in 11 one- and two-color colors and special mixtures.

F1 CamposTrio– plants with characteristics similar F1 CamposSeries. A unique new product offers placement in 1 cell of 3 seedlings of different colors: red, white and dark pink or red, white and purple.

F1 CarnivalSeries– one of the most compact and low (12–15 cm high) series, which includes 17 colors, including those with a unique metallic sheen. Plants are very resilient in open ground.

F1 ExpoSeries– plants 20–25 cm high and 30–35 cm wide, early flowering (7–8 weeks); the flowers are large. The series is resistant to changing conditions in open ground and especially to low night temperatures.

F1 ImprezaSeries– the plants are short (15–20 cm), but wide (30–35 cm), which allows them to grow quickly without stretching upward. The series includes abundantly flowering hybrids in 10 colors (including with an eye), suitable for growing seedlings at high densities. Well suited for hanging baskets.

F1 SuperElfinSeries– plants with early flowering, compact (20–25 cm high), suitable for flower beds in sunny places.

F1 SuperElfinXPSeries– plants 20–25 cm high and 30–35 cm wide. The series includes 18 colors with a white or bright spot in the center of the flower. Great for shady areas.

F1 TempoSeries– compact plants 28 cm high, with a large range of one- and two-color colors (24 hybrids). It is recommended to plant in shade and partial shade.

F1 VitaraSeries– plants are powerful, early flowering. There are 4 specially selected colors - light pink with a dark pink eye ( BrightEye), apricot with a bright red eye ( PeachButterfly), red with a white star ( RedStar) and light pink with a dark pink edge ( RosePicotee), – as well as a mixture of colors with white stars ( StarMix).

F1 XtremeSeries– plants 20–25 cm high, characterized by compactness, good branching and poor response to changes in temperature and humidity. The series includes more than 10 colors, as well as mixtures, and is one of the best for growing seedlings and flower beds in open areas.

Terry hybrids

F1 AthenaSeries– a new series with semi-double flowers for industrial production seedlings. Plants are 25–30 cm high, grow well in width, and have 5 colors with spots and stripes.

F1 FancifulSeries– compact plants (25–30 cm high and 35–40 cm wide), with semi-double flowers of 6 colors.

These two hybrids are stable when grown in containers, hanging baskets and flower beds in open areas.

F1 Victorian– tall (30–35 cm) plants with beautiful semi-double, slightly ruffled pink flowers. Recommended for hanging baskets.

Vegetatively propagated varieties

FiestaSeries– well-branched plants, 30–40 cm high with large, double flowers. The varieties are stable in open ground, suitable for flower beds, pots, containers and hanging baskets.

FiestaOleSeries– low, compact plants (for 10–11 cm pots) with large double flowers.

DiademSeries– very terry balsams with compact growth, for balconies and containers. The flowers are monochromatic and bicolor (12 colors), located above the foliage.

Modern technology for growing seedlings from seeds

Sowing

Sowing of tall hybrids intended for large hanging baskets begins in late March - early April. In April, hybrids for pots and containers are sown. And at the end of April, you can sow early flowering hybrids for cassettes, which are supposed to be planted in flower beds.

To obtain compact, quickly and abundantly flowering seedlings, it is necessary to maintain balanced substrate humidity and prevent temperature fluctuations. Balsam seeds are medium-sized: 1 g contains 1,250–2,000 pcs. With high germination of most heterotic hybrids, 1,100–1,200 pieces are required to obtain 1,000 plants. seeds The highest germination rate is for specially prepared seeds (primed). In addition, seedlings obtained from them bloom faster.

For sowing, sowing cassettes with 512 cells and larger ones are used. The substrate for balsam should be almost neutral (pH 6.2–6.5) - with higher acidity, the yield of seedlings decreases due to their death after germination. The humidity of the substrate during sowing is very high, air humidity is about 100%. The seeds are lightly sprinkled with vermiculite or left open (in germination chambers), because low illumination (100–1,000 lux) promotes germination.

For successful seed germination, it is necessary to maintain a temperature of 22...24°C. At temperatures above 25°C, germination stops, and at temperatures below 21°C, the speed and uniformity of emergence of seedlings decreases. Temperatures below 18°C ​​can cause death of the primary root and deformation of the first leaf.

Under optimal conditions, seedlings appear in 3–5 days. After this, the humidity of the substrate is gradually reduced: on the 3rd–7th day - to a very wet state; on days 4–10 – until moderately humid; after the 11th day and until the cotyledons are fully expanded - until slightly moist. With the help of ventilation, air humidity is maintained at 40–70%.

Seedling care

The optimal temperature for seedlings remains the same as for germination - 22...24°C, but it is important not to allow its fluctuations. At temperatures below 18°C, in combination with high humidity substrate, the roots of the seedlings rot and the leaves turn yellow. Watering in the second half of the day is especially unacceptable, because... the moisture remaining on the seedlings contributes to the rotting of the stems, and keeping the roots in water for 4 hours leads to their death. The illumination at this stage should be 20,000 lux.

After the cotyledons unfold, they begin feeding the seedlings with calcium nitrate (14:0:14) in a weak concentration of 0.0025–0.0035% (25–35 ppm nitrogen). Phosphorus is not needed in fertilizing during this period - its excess can cause the seedlings to stretch out.

After the appearance of the first true leaf, it is still important to maintain a balanced humidity sufficient for growth. Seedlings are watered abundantly only when the humidity of the substrate becomes low, without allowing prolonged and strong drying (until wilting), because this causes the leaves to turn yellow. The temperature at this stage is slightly reduced (to 20...22°C), the illumination is left at the same level, but in bright sun the seedlings are shaded, especially hybrids intended for shady places.

Seedlings are fed infrequently after the appearance of the first true leaf, so that they remain compact, alternating watering clean water with irrigation with fertilizers potassium or calcium nitrate (14:0:14) in a concentration of 0.0075–0.011% (75–110 ppm nitrogen).

Transplantation into containers

With the appearance of 2–3 true leaves, the seedlings are prepared for transplantation: temperature, light and humidity conditions are maintained as in the previous stage. The main requirement during this period is not to overfeed the seedlings, because with an excess of nitrogen they are stretched, and with large quantities Potassium causes the leaf blade to curl.

In total, seedlings stay in seed cassettes for 4–6 weeks. Depending on the purpose of the seedlings, they are planted in containers or cassettes. In these containers, the substrate (pH 6.2–6.5) should not be excessively wet. Air temperature - from 21...24°C during the day to 16...18°C at night. The lighting is not intense (more like partial shade), but for hybrids intended for open areas, more light is required, otherwise after planting in open ground they may develop burns on their leaves.

During this period, fertilizing is minimal: about 2–3 times with complex fertilizers (13:2:13) at a concentration of 0.0075–0.01% (75–100 ppm nitrogen).

If the substrate moisture and fertilizing concentrations are optimal, then compact and abundantly flowering plants can be obtained without the use of growth substances.

Seedlings are ready for sale depending on the hybrid:

in small pots or cassettes - after 7–9 weeks;

in 10 cm pots - after 8–11 weeks;

in hanging baskets - after 10–12 weeks.

Modern technology of growing from rooted cuttings

Varieties and hybrids from cuttings are heterogeneous in their requirements for heat and light. Terry varieties more light- and heat-loving than non-double ones. The latter are often planted in hanging baskets and in partial shade, because For sunny places there are hybrids from seeds.

The cuttings are planted in a moist (not excessive) substrate with a pH of 6.2–6.5. For the first 2 weeks, the plants are watered moderately (if there is an excess of water, they stretch out and bloom weaker), but without allowing the soil to dry out. When they grow, they are dried a little to speed up flowering and shorten the internodes.

For terry hybrids, the illumination should be 40,000–60,000 lux - if it is less than 30,000 lux, the plants will stretch. At high temperatures, all balsams need to be shaded to avoid burns of flowers and leaves. For terry hybrids, it is recommended to maintain a temperature of 21...24°C during the day and 18...21°C at night. Non-double hybrids can be grown at lower temperatures - 16...18°C.

As with seedlings, high salt content should not be allowed for cuttings. Plants are fed with high (175–225 ppm nitrogen) concentrations complex fertilizers low in phosphorus and ammonium (they enhance vegetative growth to the detriment of flowering). If the seedlings do not have enough nutrition, the plants will end up with thin stems and poorly branched.

Plants from cuttings bloom quite quickly and, subject to optimal temperature and humidity conditions, do not need pinching. To avoid stems from stretching (especially in greenhouses with low light), plants are arranged so that their leaves do not touch.

When growing Waller's balsams for disease prevention powdery mildew and root rot:

you can’t thicken the plantings;

Do not overfeed plants with nitrogen;

Avoid excessive watering, especially at low temperatures;

In case of prolonged rains, preventive spraying with fungicides should be carried out.

Magazine “The Real Owner” No. 04 2013

Waller's balsam can often be found both on the windowsill and in the front garden. It is also sometimes called impatiens, because with a slight touch or a light breeze it begins to shoot seed pods. This article will discuss how to properly grow and propagate this flower, as well as the features of caring for it.

Botanical description

Impatiens is herbaceous perennial plant, whose height ranges from 15 to 60 cm. It is rightfully considered one of the representatives of the longest flowering plants, capable of decorating both a house and a terrace or garden plot.

Waller's balsam belongs to the perennial family, but can manifest itself as an annual. If the flower is grown as a houseplant, then it is perennial. However, in gardening it behaves like annual plant, because winter frosts unable to bear it.

Did you know? Popularly, Waller's balsam is also called wet Vanka, since small droplets of moisture form at the tips of the leaves, or sparkle because of the bright colors.

The shape of the balsam bush can be upright, spherical, creeping along the ground or spreading, it depends on the variety. The plant has a thick, well-branched stem.

Its color can vary from light green to purple. At the end of the stem there are simple or double flowers, which can grow either in inflorescences of several pieces or singly.

The color of flowers, depending on the variety, can have up to 17 different shades. There are flowers in shades of red, white, pink, varieties with two-tone coloring, with splashes or a speck in the center of the flower, and also with variegated petals.

Waller's balsam is quite tall plant(up to 60 cm in room conditions). The foliage of this flower grows alternately and has a red central vein. The shape of the leaves can be lanceolate, entire or toothed.
Droplets of sweet juice collect on the edge of the leaf, which attracts ants. Flowers come in various shapes (complex and simple), and their size ranges from 2 to 6 cm in diameter. The buds are predominantly pink, but the colors may vary among hybrids.

The plant has a powerful root system, and in some varieties the roots are collected into a single node. Although Waller's impatiens is a representative of tall plants, some series of varieties do not exceed 30 cm in height.

After Waller's balsam fades, a fruit is formed, which is a seed capsule with many seeds. It has 5 doors, which open during the ripening process.

Distribution and habitats

Zanzibar is considered to be the birthplace of Waller's balsam. This plant is also called Impatiens sultanii. It received this name in honor of the ruler of Zanzibar, who ruled in the middle of the 19th century (it was during this period that it was discovered this type). Waller's balsam is most widespread in countries with warm climates. It is also popular in places with temperate climates.

Did you know? Decorating space with greenery has been very popular in the courts of the rulers of the East since ancient times. In Europe, this practice spread already during the Renaissance.

Use in landscape design

Waller's balsam is used to decorate borders and create beautiful flower arrangements or decorative statues, vertical flower beds. The flower looks good in flowerpots and garden containers.
Also obtained beautiful screens with impatiens. To create them, use 4 pegs, which are driven 1/3 into the ground. The resulting frame is covered with large-mesh plastic mesh with black lutrasil.

The resulting structure is covered with earth, and two hoses are laid that will provide watering. When the soil is laid in the lutrasil, slits are made and balsam bushes are planted. When planting, both young plants and already flowering ones can be used.

Gradually, the plants begin to grow and form a beautiful solid screen. Low growing varieties Suitable for creating carpet-type flower beds and rock gardens. Impatiens is also used to decorate terraces or other open areas. It is planted in hanging flower pots or trays, as well as in decorative flowerpots.

Growing and caring for the plant

Many gardeners are delighted with the long and abundant flowering balsam, which more than compensates for the annual hassle of planting this plant. Enjoying touch-me-nots for as long as possible will help. proper care. In this regard, let's look at optimal conditions For good growth of this plant.

Impatiens is the optimal flower for beginning gardeners, because it does not require any special care. It can be planted in various containers. Ideal for this as flower pot, as well as a balcony tray, flowerpot or hanging basket.

Green plantings of impatiens are placed on the terrace or veranda, as well as on the windowsill or balcony. This flower can be used to decorate the garden and be planted in open ground. The flowering period of impatiens in the garden lasts all summer, and in the house - most of the year.
It is necessary to carefully select the optimal place for the blooming beauty, because direct sunlight causes the soil to dry out quickly. However, impatiens need a lot of sun. In the front garden you can plant balsam under the crown of a tree.

Plant Waller's impatiens in open ground It is worth it only after stable warm weather has established, when there is no threat of unexpected frosts. In mid-latitudes, it is better to plant it only in mid-June, when most of the plants have already formed their greenery and began to actively bloom.

When choosing a site, it is also necessary to take into account the presence of drafts or strong winds. Such exposure can negatively affect the fragile branches of impatiens.
When planting balsam, the distance between the bushes should be taken into account. 25 cm is considered optimal. At this distance, the bushes can intertwine and create more reliable protection from strong wind and rain, and will also retain the maximum amount of moisture.

Did you know? Previously, even separate celebrations were dedicated to the most revered flowers. For example, in Ancient Greece there were festivals of lilies and hyacinths, and in Germany - violets.

Do not forget also about the timely removal of dry leaves and fading flowers. To form a cap, impatiens need to pinch new shoots. This will create a compact and lush bush shape.

If balsam grew in open ground in the summer, then it can be transplanted into a pot for wintering. It is best to do this in the fall, however, after transplantation, impatiens do not tolerate the dry and hot climate in the house.

Soil and fertilizers

Impatiens grows well in soil based on peat. You can use a ready-made substrate with added sand in a ratio of 5 to 1 or mix garden soil, coarse sand and peat in equal parts. Some gardeners use this mixture in a 2 to 1 ratio to plant impatiens.

The soil should be close to neutral (5.5-6.3 pH). It is not recommended to introduce fresh organic matter () since balsam reacts poorly to it, in particular this applies to young plantings. The soil should be light, loose, with good drainage.

During the budding period, it is necessary to begin introducing fertilizers once every 10 days. It is better to give preference to phosphorus-potassium fertilizing.
With the onset of autumn, the plant does not need additional nutrients ah, so the replenishment is stopped. Also, do not fertilize plants that have recently been transplanted.

Watering and humidity

Impatiens is a moisture-loving plant, so it needs plenty of watering. In summer time better watering Waller's balsam should be produced in the first half of the day or in the evening, when the scorching sun is no longer so hot.

During this period of the year, balsam is watered two or even three times a week. If the plant feels a lack of moisture, it begins to drop its leaves and quickly wither. Watering is gradually reduced as winter approaches.

Important! Excess moisture leads to rotting of the roots, and that is why watering the plant in the evening should be done with great care. You must sufficiently moisten the soil, but do not allow water to stagnate on its surface.

If the balsam is in a dry room, then it needs periodic spraying, which is recommended in the first half of the day.

Relation to temperature

Waller's balsam is a fairly heat-loving plant that needs a stable ambient temperature. The best temperature range is considered to be +22...+24 degrees in the summer.

If the air warms up above +24 degrees, then it is necessary to increase the humidity, then Waller's balsam will grow well and bloom profusely. However high humidity and low temperatures (below +18 degrees) can cause yellowing of the leaves and rotting of the root system.

If the air temperature during the day varies within +13...+15 °C, and at night drops below +5 °C, then Waller’s balsam will not tolerate such conditions and the plant will die.
Transplantation into a pot is poorly tolerated by street plants even if all conditions are met. You can get out of this situation by preparing cuttings in advance, which will be used as seedlings in the spring. Plants growing indoors in winter need to be maintained temperature regime from +15 to +24 degrees Celsius.

Reproduction and planting

To propagate balsam, two methods can be used: cuttings or seeds. The first is used much more often, since it does not require much effort, and cuttings can be prepared in winter period. The second method is more common in gardening.

It allows you to grow impatiens as seedlings or directly on the site where they will grow in the future. Let's take a closer look at each of the reproduction methods.

Seeds

Growing balsam from seeds can have two main purposes. The first involves using this plant as garden plantings or hedges. This type of cultivation involves planting directly into the ground.
The second is the use of impatiens as seedlings for flower arrangements or to create a rock garden. What this means is that the plant will be replanted in the future. In this case, the seeds are sown in a plastic container that can be covered.

If you sow plants in a container, you must prepare a substrate in advance that will be sufficiently loose and nutritious. Pour the soil mixture into the container where you plan to grow impatiens and spray it well. warm water and add seeds. At the same time, they should not be covered with earth, but simply pressed down a little.

Important! The optimal distance for planting impatiens is 3-4 cm. If this distance is not maintained, then in the future it will be much more difficult to plant bushes. This removal of bushes from each other allows replanting without damaging young and fragile roots.

Video: planting balsam seeds

The container with seedlings is covered and placed in a warm, well-lit place. In this case, the temperature should be maintained in the range of +20...+25 degrees. Periodically, the container lid must be opened and wiped from accumulated condensate. By removing condensation, you control the moisture level in the nursery.

After 2 weeks, sprouts will appear, after which it is necessary to reduce the temperature in the room to +15...+18 degrees so that the plant does not stretch.

When the seedlings grow (the seedlings reach 1 cm in height or the first 3-4 leaves appear), they can be immediately planted from the container into the soil or pots. When growing balsam from seeds using seedlings, flowering can be observed within 8-10 weeks after hatching.

To plant Waller's balsam directly in open ground, the temperature should not fall below +13 degrees (at night). It is necessary to prepare a pre-selected area (by loosening the soil well), an oilcloth that will cover the area, creating a greenhouse effect, and the seeds themselves.

Before sowing, the soil is well moistened and seeds are sown in it. It is necessary to remember that the distance between the bushes should be 25 cm. If you plant more often, then in the future it will be necessary to replant the already grown plants.

After planting, the seeds are covered with film and periodically ventilated, and after the sprouts emerge, the balsam is regularly opened, which allows the young plants to gradually harden. When the flower gets used to environment, you don’t have to cover it anymore. In the future, if the seeds are not collected in time, the flower will reproduce by self-sowing.

Vegetatively

Propagating balsam by cuttings is the simplest and most common method. The optimal period for harvesting cuttings is considered to be the end of August. At this time, garden plants are broken off apical cuttings, which are placed in a container with clean water.

Important! Before placing the shoots in water, it is necessary to remove the lower leaves so that they do not begin to rot.

After about a week, the cuttings will be able to please you with the appearance of young roots. After germination, they can be planted in separate containers. In winter, impatiens is grown as an ordinary indoor plant, and with the onset of warm spring days without night frosts, it can be planted in open ground.

Video: cuttings of Waller's balsam The advantage of this method of cultivation is the rapid germination of cuttings, which even in winter can delight you with beautiful and bright inflorescences. In addition, with the approach of spring, you can also prepare new cuttings from young shoots.

Features of care depending on the place of detention

Depending on where balsam is grown (indoors or in open ground), its flowering period and height vary. So, in indoor conditions, flowers grow taller (up to 60 cm) and bloom longer and more abundantly.

In open ground, where the plant is affected by temperature changes, wind and precipitation, balsam grows shorter (only 30-40 cm). Impatiens originally grown in a pot, basket or planter have a better chance of surviving the winter.

Since it is not recommended to transplant a flower from open ground into a pot for further wintering, if you want to preserve balsam, it is better to prepare cuttings in advance and plant them in a pot.
However, it is necessary to constantly monitor air humidity and temperature. If the air in the room is dry, it is recommended to regularly spray the plant, which will maintain optimal humidity.

Important! It should be remembered that during the wintering period, impatiens need a bright, cool place and moderate watering.

Possible difficulties during cultivation

Balsam is considered a rather unpretentious plant, however, some problems may arise with it during the growing process. Most often, gardeners complain that impatiens begin to fade. This can be caused by two main reasons.

The first is excessive watering and, as a result, rotting of the root system. If you regularly flood the flower, it is better to use a stand with pebbles where the water will be poured. In this case, the plant will receive exactly the amount of liquid it needs.
Another reason could be a recent change in location. It’s easy to fix this problem - you just need to return the flower to its original place. If the leaves of impatiens begin to turn yellow or fall off, then you should pay attention to the humidity in the room, as this is a clear consequence of dry air.

Falling buds may indicate dry air or soil. And in the case when the inflorescence long time does not form, we can talk about an excess of nitrogen or growing balsam in an unsuitable pot.

Pests, diseases and prevention

If you follow the basic rules for caring for impatiens, it rarely gets sick. However, if any problems arise with the plant, you must first reconsider the conditions under which the balsam is contained.

This will help identify the underlying causes of the disease, which may include wilting, falling leaves and flowers, and lack of buds. The appearance of black spots on the shoots means that the air temperature has dropped to a dangerously low level, or the plant is suffering from bacteriosis.
In this case it is better to process it by special means(for example, "Fitoverm"

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Impatiens originate from the forests of Asia and Africa. These are heat-loving plants that love moisture. Waller's balsam (Impatiens walleriana) has long been grown as a houseplant. People call it Vanka wet (there are small drops of moisture at the tips of the leaves) and Impatiens (when touched, it “scatters” seeds).

In general, Waller's balsams are classic, just those that grow on window sills, and hybrid ones, suitable for flower beds. The latter are short-growing (15-30 centimeters), richer in color and bloom more abundantly. They can withstand fluctuations in temperature and humidity and can tolerate heat in a flower garden. They can also grow at home, blooming on a bright windowsill even in winter.

Reference! Hybrids can be purchased at garden centers and look good in hanging planters for decoration.

Description of appearance and features

This is a perennial (in warm regions) bush plant with a height of 20 to 60 centimeters. It has erect, succulent stems, strongly branched. The leaves are wide, large, oval in shape, pointed towards the end, with jagged edges and light green in color.

Their length is about 10 centimeters. The flowers are 4 centimeters in diameter, either solitary or collected in few-flowered inflorescences. The pedicels are long. Sami flowers can be simple or different shades (usually red or pink).

Hybrids are smaller in height - from 15 to 30 centimeters, branch more strongly, produce more flowers, varied in shades. It grows quickly, blooms early and decorates the garden all summer long. Quite unpretentious, can grow in relative shade.

Photo of an indoor flower – Vanka wet

Next you can see what Waller's balsam looks like in the photo.

This beautiful flower very popular among flower growers. If you decide to grow such a long-flowering and unpretentious plant, then you might be interested in learning more about it. On our website you will find a lot of information about these and varieties of this plant:, or, and. We also talked separately about the varieties of balsam.

Growing difficulties

This species has certain problems. The most common problems with Waller's Impatiens are listed below..

1. small ones, pale leaves. elongated stems. Lack of nutrients, cramped pot, heat, lack of lighting.
2. Leaves fall, curl, stems rot. Dampness, low temperature.
3. The leaves dry out and fall off. Dry air, high temperature.
4. Loss of color in leaves. Lack of lighting.
5. Weak flowering or complete absence. Lack of lighting, nutrients or excess fertilizers, especially nitrogenous ones.
6. Stop flowering. Frosts, cold snaps, dry soil, too large a pot, incorrectly chosen time of replanting.

All these troubles can be dealt with if you pay attention to the condition of the plant in time and take action.

It is believed that Waller's balsam is difficult to grow from seeds. Indeed, they need to be sown in January or mid-March, if you are sure of the quality, in sand or a mixture with peat, under the obligatory additional lighting. Moreover, the seeds are placed on the surface of the soil, slightly pressed into it, and the top of the pot should be covered with film for better germination.

It is important to shake off the condensation from it so that they do not get fungal diseases. The temperature should be room temperature, about 25 degrees. The germination process takes from 7 to 14 days, during which it is important to control humidity and ventilate the seedlings. To prevent them from stretching, you need to reduce the temperature to 17 degrees.

Grown-up seedlings of Waller's balsam are transferred to open ground in June. when the probability of frost for herbaceous plants disappears.

Reference! It can also be grown from cuttings taken in the fall. They are grown in pots like houseplants, and in the spring you can replant or leave it at home if desired. The requirements for soil and conditions are similar.

Lighting and location

They grow well both in partial shade and in sunny areas. True, it is better not to plant it in direct sunlight, where the plant can get leaf burns. Heat-loving, does not tolerate temperatures below 5 degrees. The best place landings - on a slope where the sun lingers for a couple of hours a day, no more. If Waller's balsam grows at home, then choose any window direction except south. The temperature should not fall below 22-25 degrees.

Soil requirements

Loves light, fertile soils. Does not tolerate excess moisture, so moderation is important. It is better to water in the evening so as not to burn the leaves. When growing at home, you should not forget about fertilizing the soil with fertilizers, but in moderation and not too often.

Care at home and in the open ground

Waller's balsam is quite unpretentious and does not require advanced care. The soil should always be moist, but not excessively. In winter, watering for potted bushes is reduced and done after the soil has dried. The leaves can be sprayed, the main thing is not during direct exposure to the sun. Fertilize from March to September once every two weeks if the flower is planted in open ground.

It is important to remember that stems and leaves are especially fragile due to moisture saturation, so they should grow either next to each other, as a support from the wind, or in windless areas of the garden. It is better to remove faded buds to maintain a beautiful appearance and let new ones bloom freely.

In the fall, before frost, this variety is covered, and the pots are brought into warm room. It is not advisable to transplant from the garden into a container; it is better to root the cuttings for subsequent cultivation from them.

Common diseases and pests

If all conditions are met, then Waller's balsam will not hurt. However, if they are disturbed, some problems arise with leaves, roots or flowering.

Among the pests, aphids are especially distinguished, spider mite and whitefly. The second one appears more often in dry, hot weather. Soap baths and acaricide solution help. Aphids and whiteflies are eliminated by spraying with Aktara, Actellik, Confidor, Bi-58.

Features of reproduction

The plant is mainly grown from seeds. Take fresh, high-quality seeds. They are not used from hybrids, as they will not give the properties of the parents. It is also propagated by cuttings, which take root within one to two weeks.

Do not allow high salt content in the soil and maintain optimal humidity and light for the variety. You can grow a home bush from cuttings without any problems. This method is more preferable for beginner gardeners due to its greater simplicity.

Waller's balsam is a beautiful and long-flowering plant that can decorate any garden or home.. Its unpretentiousness and relative ease of care have allowed it to become so popular among gardeners. Impatiens of this variety will give only positive impressions and will definitely become one of your favorites among other plants.

We invite you to watch a video about propagating Waller's balsam from seeds:

Useful video

We invite you to watch a video about caring for Waller's balsam: