Impatiens (Busy Lizzie) Bud Drop: Water, Heat, and Fertilizer Balance

Diagnosing Flower Failure in Hanging Basket Impatiens

Bud drop and rot after 6-8 weeks in a flower tower suggests cultural issues, not pests (no slugs/snails found).

Common Causes

• Water: Too little OR too much—both cause bud drop
• Heat: Excessive temperatures abort buds
• Fertilizer: Excess nitrogen = foliage over flowers

Corrections

• Consistent moisture—never bone dry, never soggy
• Slow-release balanced fertilizer
• Avoid high-nitrogen feeds (Miracle-Gro type)
• Morning sun, afternoon shade ideal

Container Considerations

Flower towers dry unevenly. Top plants drought-stress while bottom stay wet. Check each level individually.