Can You Overwinter Impatiens Indoors?

Impatiens (Busy Lizzie) can survive indoors over winter, but they often become leggy, pale, and unattractive without very specific conditions. Some varieties handle it better than others.

Requirements for Success

• Light: Bright, indirect light—no direct sun.
• Temperature: Cool, 40–50°F (a greenhouse or unheated sunroom is ideal).
• Humidity: High—use pebble trays or a humidifier.
• Water: Only when soil is dry to the touch.

Realistic Expectations

Even with good care, indoor impatiens tend to get "ugly and lanky"—small leaves, thick stems, sparse flowering. They’re grown as annuals for a reason. If you have the right cool, bright, humid spot, it’s worth a try. Otherwise, enjoy them as seasonal color and start fresh next spring.