Impatiens

For instant color, plant Impatiens en masse in shade gardens with Ferns and Hostas, or in containers and hanging baskets. These long-blooming annuals and perennials come in many colors and forms, but the most popular and commonly-grown type is Busy Lizzie (I. wallerana). As compact, mounding plants, they are covered with blossoms from late spring to early fall. The New Guinea variety have larger but fewer flowers, variegated leaves and need more sun than other types. Excellent as accent container plants. The more upright-growing I. balsamina produces flowers along the main stem and branches. All need lots of water. Where summers are hot and humid, plant in full sun with adequate water, but better with some shade. In hot dry summer areas, plant in partial shade. Perennials grown as annuals may survive mild winters, but replant in spring for vigorous, generous-blooming plants.