Impatiens Have Long Spindly Stems Small Leaves And Small Flowers

Question From: San Francisco, California, United States
Q: entire row of impatien plants have long spindly stems, small leaves, small flowers

A: Your impatiens may have been attacked by impatiens downy mildew. Look at the backs of the leaves. They may be covered with a frosty covering. If it's downy mildew they will die in a few days. Remove them and throw them in the trash. I suggest you take a sample of the sick plants back to the garden center where you bought them for a diagnosis. Impatiens can also become stunted from lack of water and cultural changes. Once stunted there is no remedy. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy