Impatiens Under Pine Tree: Less Is More for Party-Perfect Blooms

Impatiens under a pine in Michigan, southern exposure, party on June 28. You added peat, topsoil, and ColorBurst 15-30-15. Cool nights near frost. Advice: stop fussing.

Why They'll Be Fine

• Pine canopy filters southern sun — ideal for impatiens (shade-loving).
• Cool nights slow growth but don't harm if no frost.
• Over-fertilizing burns tender plants; 15-30-15 is heavy on phosphorus.

Do This Instead

• Water only when soil surface is dry.
• No more fertilizer.
• Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new buds.
• Relax — they'll fill in beautifully by June 28.

Impatiens are easy. Your bed is well-prepared. Nature will do the rest.