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Impatiens
Interesting Facts

The names Impatiens and Touch-Me-Not refer to the seed pods' explosive and abrupt opening of the fruit when touched. I. capensis, commonly known as Jewelweed, is a folk remedy for poison ivy, but there is no scientific proof of its effectiveness.

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Impatiens   Candy Box (Impatiens walleriana)

The most intense colors all come together in Burpee's latest mix, with a surprise twist of just the right touch of pretty pastels. The final effect is pure eye candy. Huge, full, 2" blooms arrive early and stay all season on vigorous plants. Burpee's newest and best impatiens research elevates garden performance to a new level. You won't believe the flower power.

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Plant Types: Annual, Interior Plant, Perennial
Light: Shade to Full Sun
Height: 1 foot to 1 foot 4 inches
Width: 8 inches to 10 inches
Zones: 10a to 15b
Bloom Color: Orange, Pink, Purple, Red
Bloom Seasons: Early spring, Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall, Late fall
Type of Soil Preferred: Loamy, Sandy, Well-Drained
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Plant Care
Planting:

Sow seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before last frost, germination in 2-3 weeks at 70-75F. Just press seeds into soil surface. Water only from below and keep humid by covering with plastic. Do not set in sun when covered. Transplant when nighttime temperatures are over 50F. Perennials are easy to propagate by cuttings taken in spring or summer.


Plant Growth:

Annuals, perennials and subshrubs with brittle, succulent stems and fleshy leaves. Seeds are contained in an explosive capsule that flings seeds in all directions when touched. Visited by hummingbirds.


Blooming:

Spurred, asymmetrical flowers. Five petals, but lower petals on each flower are fused. These ornamental flowers come in a wide range of colors, usually warm, but sometimes even lavender or violet.


Soil and Irrigation:

Evenly moist, well-drained soil. The stems will wilt when they do not receive enough water. When grown in containers or under trees, they will need more water than usual.


Fertilization:

Once a month during the spring and summer, fertilize plant lightly.


Pruning:

Impatiens do not need pinching or pruning, but if you want to keep the plant compact, pinch back tip growth.


Pests:

Impatiens are susceptible to spider mites, snails, and slugs. If these pests do any damage to the plant, simply prune the damaged area.