How to Grow Impatience Plant Outdoors

If you are looking for a beautiful flowering plant that can add color and vibrancy to your outdoor space, look no further than impatiens. Impatiens, also known as touch-me-nots or busy Lizzies, are popular annual plants that are loved for their ability to thrive in shady areas and produce an abundance of colorful flowers. In this article, we will guide you on how to successfully grow impatiens outdoors.

Choosing the Right Variety

Impatiens come in a variety of colors, sizes, and growth habits. When selecting the right impatiens for your outdoor garden, consider the following factors:

Sunlight Requirements

Most impatiens varieties prefer partial to full shade. However, some newer cultivars have been developed to tolerate more sunlight. Make sure to check the specific sunlight requirements of the variety you choose to ensure it will thrive in your garden.

Growth Habit

Impatiens can have a spreading or upright growth habit. Spreading varieties work well as ground covers or for filling in gaps in flower beds, while upright varieties are ideal for borders or container gardens. Consider the space you have available and the overall look you want to achieve when choosing the growth habit.

Flower Colors

Impatiens are known for their vibrant flowers that come in various shades of red, pink, orange, purple, and white. Choose colors that complement your existing garden or create a colorful display by mixing different shades together.

Preparing the Soil

Impatiens prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, prepare the soil by following these steps:

1. Remove any weeds or grass from the planting area.
2. Loosen the soil using a garden fork or tiller to improve drainage.
3. Add compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil with nutrients.
4. Mix in a slow-release fertilizer according to the package instructions.

Planting Impatiens

Once you have prepared the soil, it’s time to plant your impatiens. Follow these steps for successful planting:

1. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of your impatiens plant.
2. Gently remove the plant from its container, being careful not to damage the roots.
3. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
4. Firmly press down the soil around the plant to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water the newly planted impatiens thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage root establishment.

Watering and Fertilizing

Impatiens require consistent moisture to thrive. Keep the following watering and fertilizing tips in mind:

Watering

Water your impatiens regularly, especially during dry periods. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture in the soil.

Fertilizing

Impatiens are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two to three weeks or use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the season, following package instructions.

Pruning and Deadheading

To keep your impatiens looking their best, regular pruning and deadheading are necessary:

Pruning

Pinch back young impatiens plants when they are about 4-6 inches tall to promote bushier growth. This will result in more compact plants with more flowers.

Deadheading

Remove faded or spent flowers by pinching them off at their base. Deadheading encourages continuous blooming by redirecting energy towards new flower production instead of seed production.

Pests and Diseases

While impatiens are generally hardy plants, they can still be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Keep an eye out for the following:

Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck sap from the leaves and stems of impatiens. Use insecticidal soap or a strong jet of water to control aphid infestations.

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent powdery mildew. If necessary, treat with a fungicide labeled for powdery mildew control.

Overwintering Impatiens

Impatiens are typically grown as annuals, but in warmer climates, they can be overwintered and treated as perennials. To overwinter your impatiens:

1. Before the first frost, dig up the entire plant, including the root ball.
2. Trim back any leggy growth and remove dead or damaged foliage.
3. Pot the impatiens in a suitable container filled with fresh potting soil.
4. Place the container in a location with bright, indirect light and maintain moderate moisture.
5. Reintroduce the impatiens outdoors once the threat of frost has passed in spring.

Conclusion

Growing impatiens outdoors can be a rewarding experience, as these beautiful flowering plants bring color and life to any garden or outdoor space. By choosing the right variety, preparing the soil properly, and providing adequate care, you can enjoy a stunning display of vibrant impatiens throughout the growing season. Follow the tips outlined in this article, and soon you’ll be enjoying the beauty of these lovely plants in your own garden.