Question: My impatiens’ leaves are turning tan and mottled. Is there an insect that does that damage?

Answer: That’s probably spider mites. They’re the nearly microscopic pests that are usually found on the bottom surfaces of the leaves. Their damage first shows as tiny freckles, but it soon spreads to encompass the entire leaf. It’s tough to get impatiens through an entire summer without encountering them. Best controls will be a general-purpose insecticide that also includes mites on its label. Spray the backs of the leaves for best coverage.