Double impatiens, like regular impatiens, are typically treated as annuals in temperate climates but can be true perennials in tropical and frost-free regions. In colder climates, however, they will need to be replanted each year.
When it comes to double impatiens specifically, their ability to come back year after year largely depends on the climate and growing conditions. In tropical regions where they are native or well-adapted, double impatiens can often survive and regrow from year to year. These regions typically have mild winters and consistent warmth throughout the year, providing the ideal conditions for the plants to thrive and persist.
However, in colder climates where frost and freezing temperatures are common, double impatiens are highly susceptible to damage and are unlikely to survive the winter. The delicate nature of their flowers and foliage makes them particularly vulnerable to frost damage, which can cause wilting, browning, and ultimately death of the plant.
In my personal experience, I have found that even in milder temperate climates, double impatiens tend to struggle to overwinter successfully. While regular impatiens can sometimes self-seed and produce new plants the following year, double impatiens are often less likely to do so. Their double-layered flowers, while beautiful, can hinder the production of viable seeds, making it difficult for them to reproduce on their own.
To ensure the longevity of double impatiens in colder regions, it is generally recommended to treat them as annuals and replant them each year. This allows for fresh, healthy plants to be enjoyed throughout the growing season without the risk of losing them to winter damage.
It is worth mentioning that there are some cold-hardy varieties of impatiens, such as New Guinea impatiens, that have been bred to withstand cooler temperatures and can potentially come back year after year in milder temperate climates. These varieties have thicker leaves and a more robust growth habit, allowing them to better tolerate colder conditions. However, even with these hardier varieties, it is always advisable to provide some protection, such as mulching or bringing potted plants indoors, during periods of extreme cold.
While double impatiens can technically come back year after year in tropical and frost-free regions, they are typically treated as annuals in colder climates. Their delicate nature and susceptibility to frost damage make it challenging for them to survive the winter, so replanting them each year is the best way to ensure their continued beauty in temperate regions.
