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Impatiens

Impatiens walleriana

Category: Flowers

Impatiens are popular bedding plants and one of the most common shade flowering plants in the US. Bright and prolific blooms of white, peach, apricot, pink, and red are present from late spring until the first frost of fall. Impatiens can be used as a shade bedding plant and in containers, especially pots providing bright color in part-shade/shady beds and hanging from trees. Be aware containers will need frequent watering and good drainage.

How to Grow Impatiens

Quick Info

Spacing
1/Square
Depth
0.1 in
0.1 in
Sun
Shade to Part Sun
Water
1 in/week
Season
Warm
Frost
Not tolerant
Height
1-2 ft
Germination
5-18 days
Germination Temp
70-75 °F
Sprout to Harvest
50-70 days
Soil pH
Slightly Acidic

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Varieties

New Guinea Impatiens
New Guinea Impatiens New Guinea Impatiens (I. hawkeri) is a sun-tolerant variety and mildew resistance. Seeds germinate in 12-25 days at 75-80°F (24-26.5°C). New Guinea impatiens are easily identified by their dark green with red/purple undersides, serrated, elongated leaves. They are especially attractive to butterflies.

Pests

Diseases

Beneficial Critters

Growing from Seed

Most impatiens seeds are pelleted- be sure potting medium is moist so covering will disintegrate. Use fresh seed as pelleted seeds do not store well. Optimal growing temps are 65-70°F (18-21°C) post-germination. Do not cover, as impatiens are very susceptible to rot.

Planting Considerations

Transplant impatiens when soil temperatures are over 60°F (15°C).

Feeding

Fertilize monthly with a high phosphorus/low nitrogen blend to promote flowering.

Harvesting

Seeds can be harvested in fall. Store in airtight container for spring planting.

Pruning

Trim back 1/3 when plants get leggy.

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