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Impatiens are popular for their vibrant colors and ability to brighten shady spots in the garden. However, they are tender annuals and are sensitive to frost. Properly overwintering impatiens ensures that you can enjoy their blooms year after year. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you overwinter your impatiens successfully.
Step 1: Assess Your Impatiens
- Healthy Plants: Select healthy, disease-free plants for overwintering. If your impatiens are still thriving, they are good candidates for winter care.
Step 2: Prepare for Winter
- Indoor Transition: In cooler climates, impatiens need to be moved indoors before the first frost. If they are in pots, simply bring them inside.
- Cut Back: Trim back any leggy or dead growth before bringing the plants inside to reduce the risk of pests and disease.
Step 3: Indoor Care
- Light: Place the plants in a bright, indirect light area. A south-facing window is ideal. Impatiens need good light to maintain health through the winter months.
- Temperature: Keep indoor temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C). Avoid placing the plants near drafts or heat sources.
- Watering: Water the impatiens sparingly. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency in winter as plant growth slows.
Step 4: Potential Dormancy
- Dormancy Option: If space is limited or you prefer, you can let impatiens go dormant. Cut the plants back to just a few inches above the soil and reduce watering. Place them in a cool, dark location. They may lose leaves but will revive in spring.
Step 5: Transition Back Outdoors
- Acclimation: In spring, once the danger of frost has passed and temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C), gradually reintroduce your impatiens to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them outside for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their exposure to sunlight and outdoor temperatures over a week or two.
- Replanting: If your impatiens were in pots, you can return them to their outdoor spots. If they were dormant, resume normal care with regular watering and feeding.
Conclusion:
Overwintering impatiens requires a bit of preparation and care, but it’s worth the effort to keep these beautiful plants thriving. By following these steps, you can ensure your impatiens make it through the winter and are ready to brighten your garden again when the weather warms up.
