did you know?

as one might expect, takes its name from the Latin word for "impatient." These African natives, which include more than 800 species, are so named because the slightest touch causes their ripe seedpods to burst, scattering seeds as if they were impatient to do so.

general maintenance:

Pinch growing tips in spring to encourage bushiness. Take cuttings and root them indoors over winter, or remove entire plants after frost.

pests/diseases:

Spider mites, thrips, whiteflies, and aphids often occur indoors; leaf spot, stem rot, and verticillium wilt may occur outdoors.

controls:

To control spider mites, thrips, whiteflies, and aphids, apply insecticidal soap. To control leaf spot, stem rot, and verticillium wilt, reduce soil moisture.

how to sow/plant:

Set young plants out in spring. Choose a shady to partly shady site with fertile, moist soil. Amend soil with well-rotted manure or compost before planting. (In containers, use well-drained potting mix.) Set plants at the same depth they were in the pot, spacing at a distance equal to the mature spread. Water upon planting, and mulch to conserve moisture.

water and fertilize:

Monitor soil moisture all season. Feed container-grown plants weekly and bedding plants biweekly with a balanced fertilizer, following package directions.

garden hint:

Impatiens are tropical hybrids and require evenly moist soil to keep blooming. Be especially vigilant during dry spells. Fertilize plants if leaves turn light green.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage
• Shade Tolerant

garden uses:

• Containers
• Flowerbed borders
• Shade Woodland Garden

other uses:

combine with:

coleus elephant's-ear sweet potato vine golden creeping jenny ('Aurea'), and ivy