New Guinea Impatiens
Sun Impatiens
New Guinea impatiens are more sun tolerant than most other impatiens which have a definite preference for shade. 'SunPatiens' are a New Guinea hybrid bred to withstand intense sun and heat.
New Guniea impatiens underplanting a banana plant. They form a 2 foot succulent shrub with narrow, pointed leaves
colored green, bronze and purple. They bloom in all colors except
yellow or blue. Some have bi-colored blooms.
It may not be a good idea to mulch them to reduce their watering needs. The succulent stems rot easily. The more sun they are in, the more water they will need. They are easier to maintain in the shade. They
are hardy in zones 9a-11. Here in zone 9a people don't usually cover
them in the winter. Unprotected,they will die to the ground but most
will return the following spring. Potted specimens can be overwintered
in the house if the humidity can be kept high enough to please them. When growing impatiens in the garden,
plant them 15 inches apart. Mix some Terra Sorb (bottom of page) into the
soil before you plant them. If they become leggy or unshapely during
the growing season, trim them back. You'll be surprised how quickly
they'll fill out and bloom again. The occasional drink of Speedy Grow (bottom of page) will guarantee constant flowering. They look spectacular in pots, alone, or as part of a container garden with several other plants. A 10 inch pot is large enough for one plant. You
can propagate New Guinea impatiens from cuttings. They are easy to
root in soil or water. In fact, any broken stem you stick into the
ground will probably root. A few varieties are available from seed.
Begin sowing 12 weeks before you want to plant them outdoors. Seeds will
germinate at 75 degrees F. and needs light to sprout so don't cover them with soil. Mist the seed flat to keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
This is a patented variety called 'SunPatiens' that was bred to
thrive in full sun and intense heat. They are available in lavender,
white, red and salmon (flowers) and some have yellow and green
variegated leaves. They are a cross between New Guinea impatiens
and a wild impatiens plant. They inherited the flower size of the NG
impatiens and the extra vigor of their wild ancestors. They can take
more sun because their leaves are slightly thicker. 'SunPatiens' grow to about 30 inches when planted in the ground. Get Growing Supplies Here A booster for indoor and outdoor plants alike.
Professional landscaper's secret! Protects plants from drought for 5 years. Tips for Growing Impatiens Annual Plants for Sunny Spaces The Colorful Kalanchoe Plant Fabulous 4 O'clocks
Like all impatiens, they require a constantly moist soil, high in organic matter. They will not survive drought or a hard freeze.
Sun Impatiens
Other Colorful Annuals:
