Garden balsam (Impatiens balsamina)

Also known as: Balsam, Touch-me-not

Garden balsam has been cherished in European gardens since the Victorian times, although its relative with flatter flowers has recently gained more popularity. This plant not only attracts pollinators but also appeals to nectar-feeding birds. The genus name "Impatiens" is derived from the Latin word for "impatient," highlighting the plant's unique characteristic of forcefully ejecting its seeds when touched.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Garden balsam

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

60 cm to 1 m

Spread

30 cm to 40 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

3 cm to 4 cm

Flower Color

White Pink Purple Red

Images of Garden balsam

Quickly Identify Garden balsam

Showy cup-shaped flowers in white, pink, red, and bi-colors.

Fuzzy green-brown capsules with explosive seed dispersal.

Elliptical light green leaves with serrated edges and prominent veining.

Thick succulent stem, soft and crushable, branching near tips.

Hermaphroditic flowers with incurved spurs in red, pink, and purple hues.

Scientific Classification of Garden balsam

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Heathers and allies

Family

Balsam

Genus

Jewelweed

Species

Garden balsam

Planting and Growing of Garden balsam

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Garden balsam?

The soil for Impatiens balsamina should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Aim to water until the top layer of the soil feels evenly saturated, avoiding standing water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Garden balsam? ›

What should I do if my Garden balsam is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Garden balsam? ›

How to save an overwatered Garden balsam? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Garden balsam?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours daily

Partial sun suits Impatiens balsamina, offering 4 to 6 hours of light. This balance maximizes flowering and ensures healthy development without undue stress.

Question about Ideal Light for Growth ›

Solution to Achieve Optimal Lighting ›

Benefits of Receiving Ideal Light ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Garden balsam?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 75℉

Impatiens balsamina thrives best in warm environments ideally set between 70°F and 75°F. At this range, the plant can efficiently photosynthesize, promoting healthy growth and vibrant blooms. This temperature supports optimal moisture levels in the soil, reducing the risk of root rot while encouraging robust root development.

What Soil is Best for Garden balsam?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Impatiens balsamina thrives in soil that drains well, preventing waterlogging that can lead to root rot. Good drainage ensures roots have access to the oxygen they need, promoting robust growth and vibrant blooms. This plant prefers soil that remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Moisture retention helps maintain plant health during dry spells, ensuring the impatiens stays lush and lively throughout the season. Being a hungry plant, it benefits from soil rich in organic matter or nutrients, which fuels its growth. A well-amended soil offers ample nutrients, promoting continuous blooming and healthy foliage. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Garden balsam?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Impatiens balsamina, a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio like 10-10-10 works well. Apply approximately 5 ml of liquid fertilizer mixed in 1 liter of water or as per the package instructions. Be mindful of over-fertilizing as it can harm the plant. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Garden balsam?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Carefully examine your Impatiens balsamina and locate stems that extend beyond the desired shape. Trim these back to maintain an appealing, compact structure. Regularly remove any dead or diseased leaves and stems to prevent disease spread. This ensures the energy is directed towards healthy growth and blooms. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Garden balsam plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Late spring

Use a well-draining potting mix to fill your seed trays or pots. A mixture of peat and perlite is excellent for starting seeds or cuttings; it retains moisture without becoming waterlogged, promoting root growth.

Distribute the seeds evenly on top of the soil in your seed tray. Cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite and mist with water to ensure they remain moist but not saturated.

Select a healthy parent plant and take 4-6 inch cuttings below a node. Remove the lower leaves to expose the stem, allowing for better absorption of nutrients and water.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Garden balsam plant?

Repotting frequency: Annually or biannually

Look for signals such as roots coming out of the drainage holes, slowed growth, or overly compacted soil in late Spring or early Summer. These are key indicators that it's time for repotting the Impatiens balsamina.

Opt for a pot that is about 1-2 inches in diameter larger than the current one. Ensure the pot has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. A slightly larger pot encourages healthier growth and prevents overcrowding of roots.

Use a well-draining potting mix. This type of soil ensures that excess water doesn't stay around the roots, preventing rotting and allowing the roots to breathe. A mix with added perlite or sand enhances drainage capabilities.