Growing: Impatiens
Growing: Impatiens
By Ellen Brown
ThirtyFun
Date: 02/13/2006
Topic: Gardening > Annuals
Botanical Name: Impatiens
Life Cycle: generally annuals, a few perennial varieties do exist
Planting Time: spring
Height: 6" to 2'
Exposure: partial to full shade
Soil: rich, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: n/a
Bloom Time: early summer to frost
Flower: variety of colors in single or double blooms
Foliage: green
Propagation: seeds and cuttings
Suggested Use: shade beds, borders, and baskets
Growing Hints: Most often bought as transplants, but seeds can be started indoors 8 to 10 weeks before last frost date. Seeds need light to germinate so press them into seed starting mix but do not cover them. Cuttings can also be rooted in soil or water, over-wintered in a warm bright location and transplanted in the spring.
Interesting Facts: Impatiens can get tall and spindly in summer heat, especially in warmer zones. To avoid this, choose compact varieties like the Super Elfin Series or Impulse Series Impatiens.
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