Balsam Plant Leaf Patches: Root Stress, Not Fungus

Moisture extremes: Wet/dry cycles, waterlogging, drought
Fertilizer imbalance: Salt buildup, deficiency, toxicity
Root damage: Transplant shock, pests, diseases
pH issues: Impatiens prefer 6.0-6.5

Balsam (Impatiens) shows "funny patches" on leaves. Owner sprayed fungicide. Expert says symptoms indicate root/soil stress, not fungus.

Why It's Not Fungal

Fungal lesions typically have distinct margins, concentric rings, sporulation
Root stress symptoms: Irregular patches, interveinal chlorosis, marginal necrosis
Multiple leaves affected similarly = systemic (root) origin

Stop fungicide—it adds chemical stress. Fix the root zone.

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