You can definitely keep impatiens over the winter! Impatiens are beautiful annual plants that brighten up our gardens with their vibrant colors and lush foliage. While they are typically grown as annuals and replaced each year, it is possible to overwinter impatiens and enjoy them again the following year.
There are a few different methods you can use to keep impatiens over the winter, depending on your preference and available resources. One common method is to dig up a clump of the plants and transfer them to an indoor pot. This can be done towards the end of the growing season, before the first frost hits.
To do this, start by carefully digging up the entire clump of impatiens, including the roots. Be gentle to avoid damaging the roots, as they are important for the plant’s survival. Once the clump is out of the ground, shake off any excess soil and examine the roots. Trim away any damaged or dead roots, as these can negatively affect the plant’s health.
Next, choose an appropriate indoor pot for your impatiens. Make sure it has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot. Fill the pot with a well-draining potting mix, leaving enough space for the impatiens clump to fit comfortably.
Carefully transfer the impatiens clump into the pot, making sure the roots are spread out evenly. Gently press the soil around the roots to secure the plant in place. Water the impatiens thoroughly after planting, ensuring that the soil is evenly moist.
Find a suitable location indoors for your impatiens. They prefer bright, indirect light, so a spot near a window with filtered sunlight is ideal. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves. Maintain a consistent temperature of around 60-70°F (15-21°C) for your impatiens to thrive.
Throughout the winter, it’s important to monitor the moisture levels of the soil. While impatiens like consistently moist soil, be careful not to overwater them, as this can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
You may also want to consider misting the impatiens occasionally to increase humidity, as indoor environments tend to be drier than their outdoor counterparts. This can help prevent the leaves from drying out and becoming crispy.
It’s worth noting that impatiens are prone to certain diseases, such as downy mildew, which can be exacerbated by high humidity. Keep an eye out for any signs of disease, such as yellowing or spotted leaves, and take appropriate action if necessary.
As the winter months pass, you may notice some leaf drop or a decrease in overall vigor. This is normal, as impatiens naturally go through a period of dormancy during the winter. However, with proper care and attention, they should bounce back and start growing actively again in the spring.
In the spring, when the threat of frost has passed and temperatures start to rise, you can gradually acclimate your impatiens to outdoor conditions. Start by placing them in a sheltered, shaded area for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their exposure to sunlight over the course of a week or two. Once they have adjusted, you can plant them back in your garden for another season of beautiful blooms.
Keeping impatiens over the winter is indeed possible by digging up a clump of the plants and keeping them in an indoor pot. With proper care, attention to moisture levels, and the right growing conditions, you can enjoy the beauty of impatiens year after year.
