How To Grow Beacon® Impatiens
Bright, colorful Beacon Impatiens light up any dark, shaded garden bed or patio. They are easy to grow, but there are a few steps to follow to ensure you get the best performance.
PLANTING
Impatiens plants can be easily grown from seeds. Start them in soil in small starter containers, making sure to keep them well watered. Place in an area with indirect sunlight.
Once the seedlings are visible, and the last Spring frost is done, you can move them outside. Impatiens are great as bedding plants, border plants or in containers. They prefer humus-rich, moist and well-drained soil and do best in partial to deep shade. Make sure the plants have some shelter from the wind.
To plant the seedlings, gently squeeze the container to loosen the soil. Turn the container over in your hand and the impatiens plant should fall out easily. Place the plant in a hole that is at least as deep and wide as the root ball. Gently fill in the hole with some potting soil mixed with ground soil. Water the plants thoroughly once you are done.
The closer the plants are, the taller they will grow, so space accordingly (impatiens plants can grow anywhere between 6 and 30 inches tall). For flower beds, plant 8 to 12 inches apart so the plants will stay low to the ground.
CARE
Once your impatiens are in the ground, they will need at least 2 inches of water a week. If the temperatures rise above 85°F, they will need at least 4 inches per week. Containers need watering daily, and twice a day when temperatures rise above 85°F.
The plants do best if fertilized regularly. Use water-soluble fertilizer on your impatiens every two weeks through Spring and Summer. You can also use slow release fertilizer at the beginning of the Spring season and once more half-way through Summer. Impatiens are self-cleaning and will continue to bloom profusely all season long.