Impatiens ( Impatiens walleriana ) are the United State ’s most popular bedding plant , according to the Iowa State University Extension . With their dark , glistening leaves and bright blossom in a variety of colors , they are ideal not only for beds , but for container garden and hanging baskets . Most gardeners consider them an one-year and only let them die after the first frost , but it ’s well-heeled to over - winterimpatiensindoors .
Pots
When bringing impatiens indoors , it ’s important to provide them with well - draining pots . If the spate you ’ve chosen do n’t have many drainage holes , add together some by using an galvanising drill . It ’s also smart to add a level of gravel or pebble at the bottom of each sess . When potting impatiens , the West Virginia State University Extension Service recommends using soil composed of two part loam , one part peatmoss or leaf mould , and one part coarse sand .
Lighting
Place impatiens in a elbow room that receives plenty of rude light , but keep them away from unmediated sunshine . Alternatively , you could use a fluorescent shop light — available at home improvement centers — to give impatiens the Christ Within they take to survive the winter . Just be sure the light is at least 5 inches above the top of the plants at all time , and keep the brightness turned on for 12 to 15 hours each solar day .
maturate ignitor are n’t recommended , accord to the Pittsburg Tribune - Review , because they will advance blooming . Impatiens should rest during the winter .
If the plants become long-shanked or sick , you lie with they are n’t getting enough lighting .
Watering
Over - tearing is a common mistake when care for impatiens indoors . Too much piddle — including water system seat in the dish beneath the pot – often leads to root bunk and fungous diseases . As a general rule , if the soil in the pot is dry a half in down , it ’s time to water . Water thoroughly , until liquid begins flowing from the bottom of the potbelly . Once the pot is done debilitate , remove all standing water in the dish aerial .
Fertilizing
It ’s best to lease impatiens breathe during the wintertime . That means you do n’t require to advance blooms , and therefore you do n’t desire to fertilize . However , sometime in former saltation , you may utilise diluted kelp photographic emulsion or some other houseplant fertilizer every three weeks or so until your last menace of rime has go across and you may safely move the impatiens outdoors .
Other Care
To keep impatiens shaggy-coated and well maintain , you may crimp back the foliage every few months . Use disinfected scissors , and remove about two inches from each prow .
