Seed-Started Impatiens & Potted Dianthus: Patience for Impatiens, Realism for Dianthus

Two questions: (1) Impatiens from seed, transplanted a week ago — no buds. What triggers flowers? (2) Potted dianthus in patio containers — how to care for them?

Impatiens: Wait for Maturity

• All annuals have a fixed juvenile phase — must produce a set number of leaves before blooming.
• No shortcut. Water when dry, give some sun (2+ hrs morning/afternoon best).
• If no time-release fertilizer at planting, feed liquid every 3 weeks after deep watering.

Dianthus: Short Bloom Window, Cool Preference

• Full sun. Water when pots dry — deep soak, not daily sips.
• Feed every 2–3 weeks if no slow-release in soil.
• Reality check: Dianthus blooms 4–5 weeks, then quits — especially in heat. They're cool-season stars.
• Don't overwater. Wet feet = yellow leaves, death.
• Backup plan: Plant blue salvia, marigolds, or ageratum in 6" pots to swap in when dianthus fades.

Impatiens need time. Dianthus need a successor.