Garden balsam (Impatiens balsamina) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

Garden balsam needs moist soil at all times and will manage through heat conditions if you are able to keep it watered regularly. To avoid overwatering, check the soil with your hand and if it feels dry to the touch, give your Garden balsam a good soaking.

Fertilization

Garden balsam that is grown in pots or containers will benefit from a water-soluble fertilizer every 2 weeks, either a general-purpose or flower fertilizer. If your garden balsam is to be planted into flower beds, a slow-release fertilizer applied to the soil before planting is usually enough.

Pruning

Deadhead (or remove) withered flowers after flowering.

Soil

Clay, Sand, Loam, Sandy loam, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Sunlight

Partial sun, Full sun

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Garden balsam

Water

Every week

Sunlight

Partial sun

Hardiness Zones

2 to 11

Planting Time

Spring

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Questions About Garden balsam

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Garden balsam?

To water Garden balsam, you can use a garden hose with a spray nozzle, a watering can, or just about any other common watering tool. Generally, Garden balsam is not too picky about how they receive their water, as they can live off of rainwater, tap water, or filtered water. Often, you should try not to water this plant from overhead, as doing so can damage the leaves and flowers and may lead to disease as well. At times, the best method for watering this plant is to set up a drip irrigation system. These systems work well for Garden balsam as they apply water evenly and directly to the soil. For one Garden balsam that grows in a container, you can use a similar watering approach while changing the tools you use. To water a container-grown Garden balsam, use a cup, watering can, or your tap to apply water directly to the soil.

What should I do if I water my Garden balsam too much or too little?

The remedy for underwatering Garden balsam is somewhat obvious. When you notice that your plant lacks moisture, simply begin watering it on a more regular basis. The issue of overwatering can be a much more dire situation, especially if you fail to notice it early. When your Garden balsam is overwatered, it may contract diseases that lead to its decline and death. The best way to prevent this outcome is to choose a proper growing location, one that receives plenty of sunlight to help dry the soil and has good enough drainage to allow excess water to drain rather than pooling and causing waterlogged soils. If you overwater your Garden balsam that lives in a pot, you may need to consider changing it to a new pot. Your previous container may not have contained soil with good drainage or may not have had sufficient drainage holes. As you repot your overwatered Garden balsam, make sure to add loose soils and to use a pot that drains efficiently.

How often should I water my Garden balsam?

Garden balsam needs water regularly throughout the growing season. Beginning in spring, you should plan to water this plant about once per week. As the season presses on and grows warmer, you may need to increase your watering rate to about two to three times per week. Exceeding at this rate can be detrimental to your Garden balsam. With that said, you should also ensure that the soil in which your Garden balsam grows remains relatively moist but not wet, regardless of how often you must water to make that the case. Watering Garden balsam that lives in a pot is a bit different. Generally, you'll need to increase your watering frequency, as the soil in a pot can heat up and dry out a bit faster than ground soil. As such, you should plan to water a container-grown Garden balsam a few times per week in most cases, versus just once per week for an in-ground plant.

How much water does my Garden balsam need?

There are a few different ways you can go about determining how much water to give to your Garden balsam. Some gardeners choose to pick their water volume based on feeling the soil for moisture. That method suggests that you should water until you feel that the first six inches of soil have become moist. Alternatively, you can use a set measurement to determine how much to water your Garden balsam. Typically, you should give your Garden balsam about two gallons of water per week, depending on how hot it is and how quickly the soil becomes dry. However, following strict guidelines like that can lead to overwatering if your plant requires less than two gallons per week for whatever reason. When growing Garden balsam in a container, you will need to use a different method to determine how much water to supply. Typically, you should give enough water to moisten all of the layers of soil that have become dry. To test if that is the case, you can simply stick your finger in the soil to feel for moisture. You can also water the soil until you notice a slight trickle of excess water exiting the drainage holes of your pot.

How can I tell if i'm watering my Garden balsam enough?

It can be somewhat difficult to avoid overwatering your Garden balsam. On the one hand, these plants have relatively deep roots that require you to moisten the soil weekly. On the other hand, Garden balsam are plants that are incredibly susceptible to root rot. Along with root rot, your Garden balsam may also experience browning as a result of overwatering. Underwatering is far less likely for your Garden balsam as these plants can survive for a while in the absence of supplemental watering. However, if you go too long without giving this plant water, it will likely begin to wilt. You may also notice dry leaves.

How should I water my Garden balsam through the seasons?

You can expect your Garden balsam’s water needs to increase as the season moves on. During spring, you should water about once per week. Then, as the summer heat arrives, you will likely need to give a bit more water to your Garden balsam, at times increasing to about three times per week. This is especially true of Garden balsam that grow in containers, as the soil in a container is far more likely to dry out faster than ground soil when the weather is warm. In autumn, while your Garden balsam is still in bloom, it may need a bit less water as the temperature has likely declined, and the sun is no longer as strong as it was in summer.

How should I water my Garden balsam at different growth stages?

Garden balsam will move through several different growth stages throughout the year, some of which may require more water than others. For example, you will probably start your Garden balsam as a seed. While the seed germinates, you should plant to give more water than your Garden balsam will need later in life, watering often enough to maintain consistent soil moisture. After a few weeks, your Garden balsam will grow above the soil and may need slightly less water than at the seedling phase. Then, once this plant is mature, you can begin to use the regular watering frequency of about once per week. As flower development takes place, you may need to give slightly more water to aid the process.

What's the difference between watering Garden balsam indoors and outdoors?

There are several reasons why most Garden balsam grow outdoors rather than indoors. The first is that these plants typically grow to tall. The second reason is that Garden balsam needs more daily sunlight than most indoor growing locations can provide. If you are able to provide a suitable indoor growing location, you may find that you need to give your Garden balsam water a bit more often than you would in an outdoor growing location. Part of the reason for this is that indoor growing locations tend to be a lot drier than outdoor ones due to HVAC units. The other reason for this is that soil in containers can dry out relatively quickly as well compared to soil in the ground.

Is pruning necessary for my Garden balsam?

Garden balsam is a kind of annual plant so it doesn't need much pruning. You only need to cut off and clean the diseased, yellow or dropped leaves and stems during its growing period. This will help your Garden balsam to stay away from pathogens infection.

How do I prune my Garden balsam?

During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off. If the whole piece of leave is discolored or infected, you will need to cut it off completely. In other situations, you will only need to cut off the discolored or infected part on certain leaves. Garden balsam above the ground will die and dry up in the winter, and the dead plants need to be cleaned up.

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my Garden balsam?

Garden balsam leaves are delicate, so take care not to score or bruise them. Unless the leaves are withered or heavily discolored, do not prune the leaves from the lowermost branches unless they’re damaged. They typically grow the largest, so they supply the plant with critical energy to keep it growing right. Please prevent the wounds from water after pruning until they are fully recovered. Remember always sterilize the tools before pruning. When the pruning is finished, please throw all the waste leaves and stems into the trashbins to avoid diseases and bugs.

Are there any tips for pruning my Garden balsam?

Sterilize all the tools before pruning; unclean tools will pass pathogens to the plant through wounds;
Prune on sunny days because the new cuts will be infected by pathogens if they're distained by rain or water.
Throw all the waste leaves and stems into trashbins, they will easily rot and attract diseases and bugs

When should/shouldn't I prune my Garden balsam?

Expect to prune your Garden balsam every week if it’s growing well or every two weeks if it grows slowly. It is always good to prune it on sunny days because if you prune it on rainy days, the rainwater will distain the cuts and cause the whole plant to be infected.

What should I look for when pruning my Garden balsam in different seasons?

Because Garden balsam is an annual plant, the pruning should take place basically during the seasons that the plant grows rapidly. During the growth of the plant, yellowing, drying and spotted leaves are produced, and these spotted and discolored leaves need to be trimmed off.

How many hours of sunlight does Garden balsam need to grow?

The Garden balsam prefers partial sunlight and will do well with a minimum of 3-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. When planting the Garden balsam in your garden, it's best to choose a spot that has morning sun and afternoon shade. You can also plant the Garden balsam under a tree that provides filtered sunlight. The Garden balsam can be grown in containers and placed on a patio, balcony, or porch, but they should be moved around to get the right amount of light throughout the day.

What will happen if Garden balsam doesn’t get enough sunlight?

When the Garden balsam does not get enough sunlight, they will not grow well and will become leggy, with thin and long stems that tend to seek sunlight. They will not bloom or produce seeds in the shade. They will also develop yellow or pale green leaves, which will stunt their growth. The Garden balsam will become more susceptible to diseases and pests if they are not getting enough light.

What will happen if Garden balsam gets too much sunlight?

The Garden balsam can be damaged by too much sunlight, especially during the hot summer months. They will develop brown spots on the leaves and flowers, and the leaves may even start to fall off. The Garden balsam may also become dehydrated, and the leaves may wilt. If you notice any of these signs, move the Garden balsam to a location with more shade or reduce the amount of sunlight they are getting.

Cautions and tips

When planting the Garden balsam, it's important to choose a spot that provides the right amount of sunlight. The Garden balsam prefers partial sunlight, and you should avoid planting them in areas that are in full sun all day. If you are growing Garden balsam in a container, you should also choose a location that can tolerate partial sunlight or provide shade in the appropriate position to ensure they get the right amount of sunlight. When transplanting the Garden balsam, it's important to avoid sudden sunlight exposure. Give the Garden balsam time to mature before transplanting outside.

In conclusion, the Garden balsam prefers partial sunlight and can grow well with a minimum of 3-4 hours of direct sunlight each day. They can be grown in containers and placed on a patio, balcony, or porch, but they should be moved around to get the right amount of light throughout the day. The Garden balsam will not grow well if they do not get enough sunlight and can be damaged by too much sunlight, especially during the hot summer months. When planting the Garden balsam, it's important to choose a spot that provides the right amount of sunlight and to avoid sudden sunlight exposure when transplanting.

What is the optimal temperature for Garden balsam?

The best temperature for Garden balsam depends on the time of year. There are two primary seasons to discuss for temperature: the growing season, and the dormancy season. During the growing season, once Garden balsam has begun to sprout, the ideal temperature range should be anywhere from 65~80℉(18~27℃). Any colder than 15℉(-10℃), and the plant will suffer; its leaves may brown and wilt, but if this is a short cold snap, then Garden balsam may be able to survive with some help.

During the warmer parts of the year, Garden balsam will need to be similarly protected from temperatures that are too high. 95-105℉ (35-40℃) is the top of this plant’s temperature range, and anything above that will compromise the integrity of the foliage and blooms of Garden balsam. Hotter temperatures can cause wilting, drooping, and even sunburn on the leaves, which can be difficult for Garden balsam to recover from. There are quite a few ways to combat this issue that are quick and easy!

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling Garden balsam

If this is the first year of your Garden balsam outside as a new plant, then it may need a little extra tending during the coldest months of the year. Not only can frost more severely damage a first-year Garden balsam, but it can also prevent it from growing back as a healthy plant come spring. This plant needs to be kept at 40℉(5℃) or above when they’re not yet established, which can be done either by bringing your Garden balsam inside for a month or two, or putting up mulch or fabric barriers that protect from frost damage.

It’s also a good idea to plant Garden balsam in a shadier spot during the first year or two, as smaller and weaker plants have a more difficult time maintaining their own temperatures in the heat. First-year Garden balsam should receive no more than five hours of direct sunlight per day, particularly if the ambient daytime temperature gets above 80℉(27℃). Shadecloth and frequent watering or misting are the keys to summer heat control.

How can I protect Garden balsam from extreme temperatures?

If cold temperatures (below 15℉(-10℃)) do occur during the growing season, there are a few measures you can take to help protect Garden balsam from frost or cold damage. If you’re growing Garden balsam in a container, then the container can simply be brought inside in bright, indirect light until the temperatures rise up over the lower threshold again. Another option that’s better suited for ground-planted Garden balsam is to use mulch or horticultural fabric to create an insulated barrier around the plant, which will protect the plant from frost and cold wind.

For temperatures that are hotter than 80℉(27℃) in the shade during the day, be careful to only expose Garden balsam to six hours or less of sunlight per day, preferably in the morning hours. Putting up shade cloth, or a fine plastic mesh, can help reduce the amount of direct sunlight that hits the plant during the hottest parts of the day. You can also install a misting system that allows for a slow release of cooling mist around the base of the plant during the day to lower ground temperatures.

Dormant season temperature recommendations for Garden balsam

During the cold winter months, Garden balsam needs a certain measure of cold in order to stay in dormancy until it’s time to sprout. Sprouting too early, that is before the danger of the last frost has passed, can be fatal to Garden balsam, especially if it’s already had a head start when the frost hits. Winter temperatures should ideally stay below 32℉(0℃), but if they get up to 40℉(5℃), everything will be just fine.

An unexpected warm spell during the cold months, which can happen in more temperate climates like woodland rainforests, can trigger a premature sprout from Garden balsam. In this case, if there’s still imminent danger of frost, you may want to try covering it with clear plastic on stakes so that the cold has less of a chance of damaging the new sprout. This setup can be removed when the danger of frost has passed. Occasionally, Garden balsam will be able to resprout at the correct time without any help, but this method increases the chances of a successful second sprouting.

Why do I need to fertilize my Garden balsam?

Plants need nutrients to survive; most gardeners, regardless of experience, are well aware of this factor. However, without food, Garden balsam will die out soon after the first pollination. Therefore, providing the right type of nutrients in the right amounts is the best way to keep Garden balsam going throughout the blooming season and producing large, beautiful flowers.

Fertilizer also helps Garden balsam build a large, healthy root system. This plant needs all the help it can get since its root system is very thin and easily damaged. Fertilizing at planting helps Garden balsam build a solid root structure that not only provides stability to the plant, but also sets the stage for a sensational flowering performance. When timed correctly, fertilization can greatly extend Garden balsam's flowering period.

When is the best time to fertilize my Garden balsam?

Garden balsam puts on tremendous growth early in the growing season, once the danger of the last frost has passed. It’s during this time that Garden balsam should be fertilized; more specifically, during planting. The idea is to apply when the plant is first planted in the ground or in planters; however you choose to plant it. This will be the only dose of fertilizer until later in the year, when blooms are in full force.

Once the season is in full swing and Garden balsam has opened most of its blooms at full size, it’s time to start fertilizing again. Around the time when blooms are at peak output, begin fertilizing again once every three to four weeks, as weather permits. Then, after Garden balsam starts to put out fewer new blooms, stop fertilizing; there’s no need to fertilize when the plant can’t produce any more blooms.

When should I avoid fertilizing my Garden balsam?

While regular fertilizing is important for Garden balsam, it absolutely can be applied at the wrong time. Some situations call for holding back the fertilizer once in a while. These are usually climate related, but they also include a variety of controllable factors. Essentially, when something is wrong with the plant, the soil, or the climate, wait it out until things have been smoothed over and the plant has recovered.

An example of when not to fertilize is if there are severe or unexpected changes in the weather. If a cold nap suddenly comes in the middle of summer, wait until it’s warm again to start fertilizing. The same stands for if the soil becomes too dry or too packed to absorb anything. At this point, fertilizer will be going straight to the roots, rather than being diffused by soil before it reaches them. As you can imagine, the roots of Garden balsam aren’t very fond of that.

When temperatures soar during the hottest parts of the day into the 90-degree fahrenheit range, don’t apply fertilizer. Since fertilizer can be broken down at various speeds depending on temperature, it’s especially important not to allow hot temperatures to break it down too quickly. Pests or diseases should also be treated and cleared up before re-fertilizing.

What type of fertilizer does my Garden balsam need?

Most types of Garden balsam need the same general balance of nutrients from fertilizer. These should come in the form of a fertilizer that’s formulated specifically for high-yield blooming plants. A fertilizer with a higher level of phosphorus is the best option. This type of fertilizer has a higher P number in its NPK number, for example 10-30-10.

Several fertilizer brands sell a fertilizer that’s perfect for blooming plants like Garden balsam, which are an easy and fuss-free way to provide the right nutrients. If you do choose to use a pre-mixed fertilizer, follow the directions on the package to prevent Garden balsam from getting too much or too little fertilizer, both of which can cause the plant to grow poorly or even wilt entirely.

How do I fertilize my Garden balsam?

Depending on the type of fertilizer you have, specific fertilizing instructions may vary. However, there are a few general tips for applying most types of fertilizer to Garden balsam. The first fertilizer application, which should be when you first plant Garden balsam, will likely consist of mixing the recommended amount of fertilizer into the soil before planting and watering in the Garden balsam.

Subsequent fertilizing may look a little different. For pellet fertilizers, simply mix the pellets into the top inch of soil around the outer edge of the plant, where the roots are. Water them in very well at first, then water regularly after that. Other fertilizers may be mixed into a watering can and applied just like a regular watering. Follow any instructions on fertilizer packaging for consistency, but if you’d rather keep things on a regular schedule, shoot for every three to four weeks.

What happens if I fertilize my Garden balsam too much?

Over-fertilizing is a very easy mistake to make for first-time gardeners, or even for experienced gardeners trying out a new product. Fortunately, Garden balsam makes this issue known very well by displaying several signs of distress. You may notice that its leaves are yellowing quickly, the foliage may wilt, or new blooms may be under-developed. These are all clear signs of too much food.

When you fertilize Garden balsam too frequently, you create uninhabitable soil conditions. Soil may become too hot, which is a term used to describe when soil is too saturated with minerals, nutrients, or compost, and ends up burning the roots of anything planted in it. It’s a good idea to flush out the soil well once a month or so, just by watering twice as much as normal with good drainage.

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Feng shui direction

North

Garden balsam has a compatible relationship with the North direction, due to its commonly associated water element. This is as Feng Shui doctrines recognize North as the representation of water. Thus, garden balsam's abilities to foster fluidity and transformation may subtly amplify the intrinsic energies in north-facing spaces, albeit your personal experiences ultimately determine the alignment's actual efficacy.

Water

Every week

Garden balsam prefers consistent moisture and well-draining soil, reflecting their origin in tropical forest habitats. Water thoroughly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Adjust watering accordingly during seasonal shifts to prevent overhydration.

Lighting

Partial sun

Garden balsam thrives in areas that expose it to a moderate amount of sunlight daily, though it's flexible enough to endure more intense light exposure. Originating from environments with mixed sunlight conditions, it has adapted to these varying sunlight intensities. However, too much or not enough light can hinder healthy development, leading to inhibited flowering or weak growth.

Temperature

-10 to 35 ℃

Garden balsam is native to warmer landscapes, leanings towards temperatures of 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). A hot summer environment is key to its thriving condition. In cold seasons, a heated indoor setting is recommended to simulate its native climate.

Transplant

6-8 inches

The best time for transplanting garden balsam is from late spring to early autumn, as the warmer months promote rapid growth. Ensure the transplant site has well-draining soil and receives partial sunlight. Remember to handle the delicate roots with care during the process.

Snake plant can be considered a houseplant and an architectural display due to its sword-like leaves with bold striping patterns, which are distinctive and eye-catching. However, use caution with this plant because it is poisonous when ingested and can cause nausea, vomiting, and even swelling of the throat and tongue.

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Garden balsam based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.

Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

Solutions: For less serious cases: Remove beetles, nymphs, and eggs. Remove all life stages of the beetles and kill them by placing them in a bucket of warm, soapy water. This can be done more easily by placing the bucket under affected leaves and shaking the plant. This method is most effective in the afternoon when leaf beetles are more active. Always dispose of insects in a sealed bag or container to avoid escape and spread. To treat more serious infestations: Apply organic insecticides. Use naturally-derived insecticides before moving on to synthetic insecticides. Neem oil and pyrethrum are naturally-derived insecticides that should be applied following label instructions. Apply synthetic insecticides. Examples of insecticides effective for leaf beetles include carbaryl, permethrin, and bifenthrin. Apply insecticides according to label instructions.

Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

Solutions: Check the soil or potting medium. Coarse textures can allow water to drain too rapidly, preventing the plant from taking up enough. If the soil and roots seem very dry, add sphagnum moss or other mediums that hold water. Water according to recommendations for each plant's species. Low humidity can be corrected by misting the plant regularly or placing it near a humidifier. Keeping it near other plants helps, too. Keep the environment consistent in terms of temperature, humidity, and lighting. Keep it away from vents, heaters, and air conditioners, and avoid moving it to locations where it will experience a temperature shock. Hot, dry heat, and cold drafts are problematic for many plants. Especially if the plant is outside, it could be experiencing heat or light stress. Try moving it to a shadier location.

Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

Solutions: If flower withering is a natural progression due to age, there is nothing that can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible. For lack of water, immediately water the plant using room temperature rainwater, bottled spring water, or filtered tap water. Water container plants until excess water drains out the bottom; water in-ground plants until the soil is soaked but there isn’t standing water on the surface. In the event of nutritional deficiencies, the best solution is to use a granular or water-soluble liquid fertilizer, and apply it to the soil at about half the recommended dosage. Keep it off the leaves and make sure granular products are watered into the soil well. If the plant is infected with a bacterial or fungal pathogen, there is no course of treatment that cures the diseased plants. The best solution is to remove the infected plants and dispose of the plant material off-site. Do not put in a compost pile.

Leaf rot

This pathogen can cause the leaves to rot.

Solutions: Bacterial infections need to be treated quickly to prevent the spread to neighboring, healthy plants, potentially wiping out large sections of your indoor or outdoor garden. In mild cases: Use sterilized (10% bleach solution) pruning shears or scissors to remove any infected plant parts, making sure to dispose of them off site. Use a copper-based bactericide to treat the unaffected foliage, as well as the soil, and neighboring plants. Follow the manufacturer’s rate and timing directions found on the product label. In severe cases, where more than half the leaves are affected: Remove all of the infected plants from the garden, disposing of them off site. Treat the soil and neighboring plants using a copper-based bactericide. Follow the manufacturer’s rate and timing directions found on the product label.

Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

Solutions: Sap-sucking insects can be hard to spot, as they are often small and attach to the undersides of plant leaves. If you see signs of an infestation, follow these steps to eradicate it. Hand-pick bugs and remove eggs: Inspect your plants for insects and drop any you find in a container of soapy water. Look carefully at the undersides of plant leaves and squish any egg clusters you find. Use Insecticide: Targeted spraying can take out sap-sucking insects. Small infestations can be controlled with insecticidal soap, though larger outbreaks might require a stronger spray. Introduce natural predators: Many insects, including ladybugs and praying mantises, love to feast on sap-suckers. You can purchase them at garden stores and release them near infected plants, or encourage wild ones by creating habitat space.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Waste places

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Pink

Purple

Red

Bloom Time

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Garden balsam

G. Francis, in the Favorites of the Flowers Garden (1844) quoted that "it may be ranked amongst the most elegant annuals that the warmest climates have afforded us". The specific epithet balsamina refers to the meaning of balsam. As it is a very popular garden plant, it is called the garden balsam.

Symbolism

Leave me alone

Usages

Beauty Improvement Value

The flower liquid may dye fingernails and is long-lasting.

Garden Use

The garden balsam is a commonly planted annual, especially in courtyard, cottage, and tropical gardens. Prized for its bright blooms and explosive seed discharges, it is used for its ability to add bright colors to shady spots and attract pollinators. It is often planted with hostas, ferns, tiarella because they also do well in shady areas.

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

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Garden balsam

Impatiens balsamina

Also known as: Balsam, Touch-me-not

Water

Every week

Sunlight

Partial sun

Care Guide for Garden balsam

Water

Fertilization

Pruning

Soil

Clay, Sand, Loam, Sandy loam, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline

Sunlight

Partial sun, Full sun

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Questions About Garden balsam

Watering

Pruning

Sunlight

Temperature

Fertilizing

What is the best way to water my Garden balsam?

What should I do if I water my Garden balsam too much or too little?

How often should I water my Garden balsam?

How much water does my Garden balsam need?

How can I tell if i'm watering my Garden balsam enough?

How should I water my Garden balsam through the seasons?

How should I water my Garden balsam at different growth stages?

What's the difference between watering Garden balsam indoors and outdoors?

Is pruning necessary for my Garden balsam?

How do I prune my Garden balsam?

Are there any cautions I should be careful with when pruning my Garden balsam?

Are there any tips for pruning my Garden balsam?

When should/shouldn't I prune my Garden balsam?

What should I look for when pruning my Garden balsam in different seasons?

How many hours of sunlight does Garden balsam need to grow?

What will happen if Garden balsam doesn’t get enough sunlight?

What will happen if Garden balsam gets too much sunlight?

Cautions and tips

What is the optimal temperature for Garden balsam?

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling Garden balsam

How can I protect Garden balsam from extreme temperatures?

Dormant season temperature recommendations for Garden balsam

Why do I need to fertilize my Garden balsam?

When is the best time to fertilize my Garden balsam?

When should I avoid fertilizing my Garden balsam?

What type of fertilizer does my Garden balsam need?

How do I fertilize my Garden balsam?

What happens if I fertilize my Garden balsam too much?

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More About How-Tos

Common Pests & Diseases

Common issues for Garden balsam based on 10 million real cases

Brown spot

This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.

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Leaf beetles

Leaf beetles are a class of colored insects 1 to 2 cm in size. They gnaw on leaves and petals resulting in small, round holes scattered over the surface.

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Wilting after blooming

Flowers may wither for a variety of reasons.

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Flower withering

Flowers may dry out due to a sudden change in environment or because the plant has completed its normal flowering period.

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Leaf rot

This pathogen can cause the leaves to rot.

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Sap-sucking insects

Sap-sucking insects can create dense clusters of small yellow or white spots on the leaves.

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Treat and prevent plant diseases.

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Distribution Map

Habitat

Waste places

Map

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

More Info

Plant Type

Herb

Flower Color

White

Pink

Purple

Red

Bloom Time

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Leaf Color

Green

Name story

Garden balsam

Symbolism

Leave me alone

Usages

Beauty Improvement Value

The flower liquid may dye fingernails and is long-lasting.

Garden Use

Scientific Classification

Phylum

Class

Order

Family

Genus

Species

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# Useful Tips