I hadn't heard anything so I looked for the article on the Cape Cod online site.

Impatiens running out on Cape Cod

They say it's downy mildew caused by the unusual rainy and wet weather this spring. Downy mildew is different from the more common powdery mildew.

"Unfortunately for gardeners glum over their dwindling impatiens, there isn't much that can be done once the plants have contracted crown and root rot, Cape garden experts agree. But there are measures that can be taken to keep still-healthy plants spry until fall, such as introducing organic fungicides or healthy bacteria to fight the devastating mildew."

Claire

The latest UMass Landscape Message says:

" Pests/Problems: Crown and Root Rot of Impatiens have been confirmed by the UMass Extension Plant Diagnostic Lab in Amherst. Three different pathogens have been isolated in samples sent to the lab. The primary disease is Downy Mildew of Impatiens, but Rhizoctonia and Pythium have also been found. Sanitation is important and a thorough removal of all infected plant parts is recommended. Fungicides are registered for these pathogens but it is really too late for effective management. High moisture levels play an important part in infection so managing irrigation to minimize constant wetness is recommended. Do not replant affected areas with Impatiens for this and next year. Go to 329-impatiens-downy-mildew for more information on Downy Mildew of Impatiens. "

Claire