While other jewelweeds are relatively unpopular, Impatiens walleriana or the busy Lieschen is sought after as a houseplant. In order to be able to enjoy it for a long time, certain care tasks are essential. What matters?
How do you properly care for the busy Lieschen?
In order to properly care for the busy Lizzie (Impatiens walleriana), regular watering with low-lime water and low-dose fertilizer is necessary. Pruning promotes bushy growth. Overwinter at 15-20 °C in a bright room without frost.
Can this plant tolerate drought?
The busy Lieschen can neither tolerate drought nor waterlogging in its location. If it is too wet, its stems will rot and root rot will not take long. If it is too dry, the flowers and leaves dry out and the plant becomes more susceptible to disease and pests.
The soil must be kept moist, especially in summer. If water collects in the saucer after watering, you should throw it away. Water only with low-lime water, regularly and evenly.
How often should the busy Lieschen be provided with fertilizer?
Application of fertilizer makes sense for abundant flowering. Fertilization should be carried out from March until September. If Impatiens is outdoors, it is supplied with fertilizer every 4 weeks. If the plant is in a pot, fertilizer needs to be applied every two weeks. But be careful: use the fertilizer lightly! Suitable liquid fertilizers include liquid fertilizer (€8.00 on Amazon), horn meal, manure and slow-release fertilizer.
Is pruning necessary?
The following should be taken into account when cutting:
- ideal: cut back by 2/3 in spring
- frequent pruning is tolerated
- remove wilted flowers (to extend the flowering period)
- Cut off fruit capsules to prevent seed formation
- preserve bushy growth
- remove long, bare shoots
How is the plant overwintered?
When overwintering this jewelweed, remember the following facts:
- sensitive to frost
- overwinter perennial specimens indoors
- Dig up and house outdoor plants
- optimal wintering temperature: 15 to 20 °C
- bright location in winter time
- put outside again from April
- fertilize sparingly, water less
Are there certain diseases and pests that are appearing more frequently?
In general, Impatiens walleriana is considered sensitive. 'Dropping-off' is a common disease. Pests can also spoil the visual appearance of this type of jewelweed. They appear more often when it is too dry. Candidates include spider mites, aphids and whiteflies. With such infected specimens, eating the flowers is less delicious
Tip
The busy Lieschen can be repotted in spring. It can be cut back straight away. Adding fertilizer is then unnecessary.
