How to Care for Impatiens

Select a site that receives about two to four hours of filtered sun per day. A site with morning sun and afternoon shade is also a good choice. Impatiens will also grow in deep shade, but will not grow as vibrantly as those with light sun exposure.

Space impatiens 6 to 8 inches apart in the planting bed. They will soon spread to create a dense mat of flowers and foliage. Dig individual holes with a planting trowel and slip the root ball into the prepared hole. Firm the soil around the roots to support the plant.

Water impatiens regularly, as they require a lot of water. The more sun exposure at their planting site, the more water they will require. Do not let the soil in their growing bed dry out or the plants will wilt.

Mulch the soil with an organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips. Put down a layer of mulch about 3 inches deep, keeping the mulch from touching the main stems of the plants.

Fertilize every two to three weeks during the growing season with all-purpose, water-soluble fertilizer mixed according to the manufacturer's label directions. Spray the fertilizer solution on the plants with a garden sprayer.