For the “Busy Lizzie” (or Impatiens), the outdoor season is incredibly short—we’re talking barely six months of fresh air. Because of that, these plants have to grow fast to pump out as many blooms as possible. To make that happen, you’ve got to get their living conditions just right.
Indirect Light is the Way to Go
Back in its native home along the East African coast, the Busy Lizzie is a flowering machine when it’s tucked away in moist, shady spots. These areas are bright—as you’d expect for any plant that blooms this much—but they stay out of the direct sun. Here’s how to recreate that perfect vibe in your own garden:
- A partial-shade spot is your best bet.
- Look for areas that get a little morning or evening sun.
- Keep them away from that intense, scorching midday heat.
- They’re also happy in full shade, as long as it’s “bright” shade.
- For container gardening, East- or West-facing balconies are perfect.
- Even the “unpopular” North-facing balcony works great for them!
Quick Tip:
Keep an eye out for some of the newer Impatiens hybrids hitting the market lately—some of these modern varieties are bred to handle full sun without losing their flower power.
Give Them Nutrient-Rich Soil
Don’t be stingy with the soil! Busy Lizzies are hungry plants during their peak season from May to October. They love nutrients, though they aren’t big fans of lime. Before you plant them in a garden bed, mix in some compost. Ideally, you want a sandy-loam texture that holds onto moisture without getting waterlogged or “wet feet.”
If you’re planting them in pots, standard high-quality potting soil works just fine, provided you add a drainage layer at the bottom. They also make great roommates! They love sharing space with other shade-seekers like begonias, fuchsias, bellflowers, and hydrangeas.
Keep Them Out of the Wind and Rain
Impatiens are a bit delicate; a strong wind can easily snap their stems or leave them looking limp. Heavy rain—especially those long, drizzly stretches in spring or fall—can also ruin the blossoms. Try to find a sheltered spot under a roof overhang or near a wall or larger plants to give them some protection.
Moving Indoors for the Winter
No matter how much your Busy Lizzie loves its summer home, it’s time to pack up once the thermometer drops below 50°F (10°C). These plants are definitely not frost-hardy and will freeze if left outside. Move them indoors to a bright spot where temperatures stay around 50-55°F. They can survive in warmer living rooms too, but they’ll definitely demand a little more TLC to get through the winter.
