How to Grow Impatiens in Shaded Flower Gardens
Versatile Annual Plant Blooms All Summer and Requires Little Care
Apr 10, 2009
Impatiens are very popular plants for shade areas. They add a splash of color as they bloom throughout the summer months. Their versatility allows them to also be grown as houseplants and their wide range of color fits in with any landscaping plan.
You Can Start Impatiens Plants Indoors from Seeds
Seeds can be started indoors eight to ten weeks before you plan to plant them in the garden. Use a seed-starting soil and sow shallowly. Enclose the container in a plastic bag and keep out of direct sunlight. Keep them in a warm spot and the plants should emerge in 20 to 28 days. You can use a seed germination mat for a quicker start.
When the seedlings are about 2 inches in height, carefully transplant them into individual containers using a soil-based medium.
Condition the plants by moving them to a sheltered place outdoors for a week before planting them in the ground. Water well when transplanting. After the plant is established, feed regularly or use a slow release fertilizer. Plants should flower six weeks later.
Choose Healthy Impatiens Plants from Your Garden Center
Most gardeners prefer to buy their plants from their local garden center instead of waiting for the seeds to germinate and grown. Look for plants that show signs of new growth.Choose plants that are not root bound to allow the newly-planted impatiens to get a healthy start.
It is more economical to buy small plants. You can, however, buy more mature plants to add a more finished look to your flower beds from the start.
Planting Impatiens in Your Garden
Choose an area that is shaded most of the day, especially if you are in the southern part of the United States. Morning sun is fine in most areas of the country. You should, however, avoid dark areas of the yard that do not receive natural light.
Make a hole larger than the plant and fill in with some good quality potting soil. Set the plant into the hole you have made and fill in around it with potting soil. Water well and give the plant a few days to start its growth. Then mix a time-released fertilizer into the soil or use a liquid plant food.
Grow Impatiens Indoors as a Houseplant
Impatiens can be grown as a houseplant with an eye toward the humidity and temperature of the room. They can be grown successfully in normal room temperature with at least 50% humidity. Plants should be placed on saucers of moist pebbles and have their leaves misted daily. Observe the plant carefully and adjust the misting and moisture to suit the individual plants requirements.
Most impatiens grown indoors are treated as annuals and discarded after one season. You can make cuttings and start new plants or just save some seeds for growing fresh, young plants.
Useful Links About Impatiens and Plants With Similar Growing Conditions
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