From my perspective as an Impatiens plant, light is my primary source of energy. I thrive on bright, indirect light. A spot near an east-facing window is ideal, as it provides the gentle morning sun I crave without the harsh, intense rays of the afternoon, which can scorch my delicate leaves and cause my beautiful blooms to fade. A north-facing window can also be a suitable home. If you place me in a south or west window, please use a sheer curtain to filter the light. I will tell you if I'm unhappy; leggy stems and few flowers mean I'm straining for more light, while yellowing or scorched leaves mean I'm getting too much.
My name, Impatiens, hints at my nature—I am impatient for water. I prefer consistently moist soil, but I am not a aquatic plant; I despise having my roots sit in waterlogged soil, as this will cause them to rot. Please check my soil daily by touching the top inch with your finger. If it feels dry, it is time for a thorough drink. Water me until I am satisfied and you see water just beginning to drain from the bottom of my pot. Ensure my container has excellent drainage holes to let any excess water escape. I may wilt dramatically if I get too thirsty, but with a prompt drink, I will usually perk back up, showing my resilient spirit.
My root system requires a comfortable and breathable environment to support my growth above the soil. Please plant me in a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. A peat-based mix is often to my liking. The pot you choose for me is also important; it should be just one size larger than my current root ball. A pot that is too large will hold excess moisture around my roots, leading to the rot I fear. As I grow, you may need to repot me into a slightly larger home every spring to give my expanding roots the space they need to gather nutrients.
I am a tender perennial that originates from environments with warm, humid air. To truly make me feel at home indoors, maintain a room temperature between 65°F and 75°F (18°C - 24°C) and protect me from cold drafts and sudden temperature changes, like those from air conditioning vents or open doors in winter. I also appreciate higher humidity. You can mimic my preferred tropical conditions by placing my pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water (ensure the pot is not sitting directly in the water) or by occasionally misting the air around me with a fine spray.
Producing my vibrant, cheerful flowers requires a significant amount of energy. To support this constant display of color, I need regular nourishment. Please feed me with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength every two weeks during my primary growing season (spring and summer). This provides me with the essential nutrients I need without overwhelming my system with a too-strong chemical dose. In the fall and winter, when my growth naturally slows, you can reduce feeding to once a month or suspend it altogether until the longer days of spring return.
