Impatiens are flowering plants commonly used in beds, borders, and planters. These fast-growing plants boast bold-colored flowers and glossy green foliage. Impatiens like damp conditions, but at the same time, they do not like wet feet. To grow and thrive, you must keep the soil consistently moist for Impatiens. Learn how to properly water Impatiens so you can enjoy the striking blooms all season long.
How To Tell If Impatiens Needs Watered
An excellent way to identify when a plant needs water is to feel the soil near the plant's base and understand that specific plant's needs. Impatiens are thirsty plants, and the soil should never completely dry out. Water Impatiens when the soil feels slightly damp. Wait to water if the soil feels wet. The leaves will wilt or turn yellow if the plant is severely dehydrated.
How Often To Water Impatiens
Water Impatiens daily for the first week after planting. Monitor the soil to ensure the water is draining because while Impatiens like damp conditions, they cannot handle standing water. Warm temperatures will cause water to evaporate more quickly, which means Impatiens will dry out, so keep an eye on the temperature and water more often on hot days.
Established Impatiens need water once a week. Plants in sunny locations or drier climates may need water more often. The weather will be a factor, so you may be able to skip a week if there is rain, or you may need to water more often during a heatwave.
Can you overwater Impatiens? Yes, it is possible to overwater Impatiens. Too much water is damaging. It seems counterintuitive, but the plant will essentially suffocate in extremely wet conditions.
Plants grown in containers dry out more quickly, so Impatiens in pots will need water every few days. Although, check on the plants daily if the temperature gets into the high 70s or 80s because the plants may need water more often.
Best Time To Water Impatiens
Mornings are generally the best time to water all plants, including Impatiens. A good soaking early in the day gives the roots time to absorb the water and helps sustain the plant against the afternoon heat. Impatiens are susceptible to high heat, so watering in the morning protects the plant, especially during the summer. Water right away regardless of the time of day if the plant shows signs of dehydration.
How to Water Impatiens
Step 1 - Check the soil.
Water if the soil feels slightly damp or is dry. Do not water if the soil is wet.
Step 2 - Water the soil around the plant.
Avoid getting the plant wet as much as possible. Plants that prefer damp conditions, like Impatiens, are prone to powdery mildew and fungus. Watering the soil and keeping the plant dry whenever possible reduces the risk of these conditions.
Step 3 - Saturate the soil.
Water until the ground around the plant is entirely drenched. Water potted Impatiens until water drains through the container.
Step 4 - Monitor the plant.
Continue to check the plant to ensure the water drains but the plant does not dry out.
Impatiens Watering Tips
- Feel the soil and water when the soil is just barely damp.
- Drench the soil to ensure the root ball is saturated.
- Water the area around the plant and keep the foliage dry as much as possible.
- Monitor the plant for signs of dehydration or overwatering.
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Author Alison Cotsonas - Published 10-01-2022 |