Impatiens: How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Busy Lizzies

White and orange impatiens

Impatiens is a beautiful annual that excels as a houseplant or summer bedding plant. Also known as "Busy Lizzie," its name derives from the Latin for the way ripe seed pods burst open at the slightest touch, scattering seeds. Impatiens thrive in shade and moisture.

Planting Impatiens

• Plant transplants after the last spring frost in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil. Provide wind shelter.
• Closer spacing yields taller plants (6–30 inches). For low, dense beds, space 8–12 inches apart.
• Mix in compost or slow-release fertilizer before transplanting.
• For containers, use sterile or soil-less mix for better drainage.

Care Essentials

• Water regularly—this is critical. Keep soil moist but not soggy. Dry plants drop leaves; overwatering invites fungal diseases.
• Container plants need more frequent watering.

Pests and Diseases

• Spider mites
• Impatiens Downy Mildew (IDM): See treatment tips.
• Flower thrips
• Root knot nematode
• Whiteflies
• Aphids
• Caterpillars
• Gray mold
• Fungal leaf spot

Recommended Varieties

• Tom Thumb Series (Impatiens balsamina) — dwarf with large, double, brightly colored flowers.
• Super Elfin Series (Impatiens walleriana) — spreading habit with wide pastel range.
• Swirl Series (Impatiens walleriana) — pretty pink and orange flowers with red-outlined petals.