by Linda Ann Nickerson

Created on: February 21, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

Impatiens is the plant that satisfies amateur gardeners immediately and all summer long!

The line starts forming the day after Mother's Day. That's when it's safe to plant annual flowers. (Incidentally, ANNUALS do not return on their own each year, as PERENNIALS do.) Many garden centers do begin selling annual flats early in the spring. However, a wise gardener will wait until the last danger of frost has passed. In the northern half of the United States, Mother's Day is the benchmark.

Impatiens are probably the most popular flowers for gardening, primarily because they produce a very satisfying display of color, while requiring minimal horticultural effort or know-how.

Impatiens may be grown from seed or purchased economically in cell-packs or floral flats at a local nursery. These flowers are available in many colors: white, pink, red, lilac, rose, and salmon. Check the tags carefully, as a variety of heights are available too (6:, 12", 24" and more).

A few simple rules are all you need to know:

1) Impatiens must be planted in shady spots. A single day of direct sunlight can fry them.

2) Prepare the planting location by loosening the soil and adding organic matter. A rich potting soil is an excellent choice.

3) Plant your impatiens 12" to 18" apart, as they will tend to spread out and fill the space you allow for them.

4) Gently pack additional soil around the plants, until they are nestled cozily in your garden, patio pot, or hanging basket.

5) During and after planting, impatiens should be handled as little as possible. In fact, a popular nickname for this plant is "Touch-Me-Not."

6) Regular watering is a must. Every day that it does not rain, you will want to water your impatiens - gently and thoroughly. (Using a misting spray attachment on your garden hose is a wonderful way to do this.)

7) About once a month, it's a good idea to use a liquid (water-mix) fertilizer, such as Miracle-Grow. For patio pots and hanging baskets, you may need to do this twice a month. This addition will encourage root growth, plant establishment, and blooming.

7) Pinching off dead blossoms will encourage additional blooming.

8) Impatiens suffer greatly in frost. To prolong the colorful display into the fall, you can cover the plants with a blanket or plastic sheet overnight, in case of frost.

Follow these simple steps, and you will be quite pleased with your colorful display, which will last all summer long, whether you plant your impatiens in a balcony windowbox or a national landmark garden.

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