Troubleshooting
Accent Scarlet Busy Lizzie problems — and how to fix them
Accent Scarlet Busy Lizzie (Impatiens walleriana) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Impatiens downy mildew (Plasmopara obducens)
The most serious problem in recent years. Causes rapid leaf drop, leaving bare stems. Once it appears, remove and destroy all infected plants. Use New Guinea Impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri) as a resistant alternative for outdoor beds.
Vine weevil
Grubs eat roots in containers, causing sudden collapse. Apply nematode biological control in late summer.
Red spider mite
Pale mottled leaves and fine webbing in hot, dry conditions. Increase humidity and treat with insecticidal soap.
Botrytis grey mould
Fuzzy grey mould on stems and spent flowers in cool, wet weather. Remove faded flowers and improve airflow.
Aphids on new growth
Treat promptly with insecticidal soap or pyrethrin spray to prevent stunted growth and virus spread.
Prevent accent scarlet busy lizzie problems before they start
Most accent scarlet busy lizzie issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Accent Scarlet Busy Lizzie problems — FAQ
Why is my accent scarlet busy lizzie impatiens downy mildew (plasmopara obducens)?
The most serious problem in recent years. Causes rapid leaf drop, leaving bare stems. Once it appears, remove and destroy all infected plants. Use New Guinea Impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri) as a resistant alternative for outdoor beds.
Why is my accent scarlet busy lizzie vine weevil?
Grubs eat roots in containers, causing sudden collapse. Apply nematode biological control in late summer.
Why is my accent scarlet busy lizzie red spider mite?
Pale mottled leaves and fine webbing in hot, dry conditions. Increase humidity and treat with insecticidal soap.
Why is my accent scarlet busy lizzie botrytis grey mould?
Fuzzy grey mould on stems and spent flowers in cool, wet weather. Remove faded flowers and improve airflow.
Why is my accent scarlet busy lizzie aphids on new growth?
Treat promptly with insecticidal soap or pyrethrin spray to prevent stunted growth and virus spread.