Garden Balsam, also known as Balsamina, Touch-Me-Not, Balsam Impatiens, or Busy Lizzie, is a flowering plant in the Balsaminaceae family. Growing Balsamina in the flower garden was popular in the Victorian era, and it’s time these showy blooms made a comeback.
Its scientific name is Impatiens balsamina. Native to Asia, particularly the Indian subcontinent, Garden Balsam is well-suited to a range of growing conditions, thriving best in warm climates. This plant is often compared to the popular bedding flowers Impatiens (Impatiens walleriana) and Vinca (Catharanthus roseus), but there are some key differences.
Like Impatiens, Garden Balsam thrives in shady areas and produces colorful blooms, making it a popular choice for these conditions. However, Garden Balsam can tolerate slightly more sun than traditional Impatiens, especially in cooler climates. Unlike Vinca, which is known for its drought tolerance, Garden Balsam requires more moisture to grow well.
Balsamina is generally grown as an annual in most regions. While it can survive mild winters in warmer zones (9-11), it is typically treated as an annual. It is known to self-seed in ideal conditions, meaning it can reappear the following year if the seeds are left in the ground, though it may not always be reliable.
Garden Balsam features fleshy, upright stems, reaching heights of 1 to 3 feet and with a similar spread. The flowers come in various colors, including pink, white, red, purple, and lavender, often with a glossy texture. Garden Balsam thrives during the summer growing season, providing vibrant blooms until the first frost.
Garden Balsam Description
Balsamina produces showy, colorful flowers that are popular in gardens for their vibrant hues and unique shape. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, red, white, and shades of lavender.
The blossoms are typically single or semi-double, with soft, petal-like structures that resemble a delicate, open bloom. They grow in small clusters, creating a striking visual display.
The individual flowers of Garden Balsam are about 1 to 2 inches in diameter. The plant itself typically reaches a height of 18 to 36 inches, with some varieties growing taller depending on the growing conditions.
Garden Balsam has a bushy growth habit, with a spread of approximately 12 to 18 inches wide, making it an ideal choice for filling borders, containers, and flower beds.
This plant thrives in shaded or partially shaded garden areas and is often used for ornamental purposes in beds, borders, or hanging baskets. It is especially well-suited to areas with consistent moisture, making it a favorite for shady spots that may be too damp for other flowering plants.
How Growing Garden Balsam Helps Wildlife
Garden Balsam offers nectar for honeybees, bumblebees, Painted Lady butterflies, Swallowtail butterflies, and hummingbirds.
After blooming, their seeds can serve as a food source for birds. The dried seed pods remain attached to the plant, making them accessible to birds during the winter months. Finches, sparrows, chickadees, and nuthatches are all seed-eating birds that will appreciate your growing Garden Balsam come winter.
When to Start Garden Balsam Seeds
The timing of seed sowing can vary depending on your USDA hardiness zone and the local climate. Garden Balsams thrive in warmer conditions, so timing your sowing accordingly ensures the best results.
Zones 3-5:
In these cooler zones, Garden Balsam should be started indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. For direct sowing outdoors, wait until the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F, typically in late spring.
Zones 6-8:
In these regions, you can start Garden Balsam seeds indoors about 6 weeks before the last frost date. Alternatively, you can sow seeds directly outdoors in these zones once the soil temperature reaches around 60°F.
Zones 9-12:
In warmer zones, Balsamina can be sown directly into the garden from late winter to early spring. However, for an earlier start, you can begin indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost date, if even applicable. These zones typically have a longer growing season, allowing for direct sowing earlier than in cooler climates, and in frost-free zones, you can direct sow year-round.
Preparing Seeds for Growing Garden Balsam
Garden Balsam seeds don’t require cold stratification. However, you can help speed up germination by soaking the seeds for 12-24 hours before planting. This helps to soften the seed coat, which may result in quicker sprouting, especially if you are planting in drier conditions. Simply place the seeds in warm water for the recommended time, drain, and sow them immediately.
Direct Sowing Balsamina
To start Garden Balsam (Touch Me Not) seeds directly outdoors, follow these step-by-step instructions for optimal results.
- Sow the seeds about 1/8 inch deep in the soil. Garden Balsam seeds are small, so avoid planting them too deeply.
- Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, during the germination process. Water gently to avoid disturbing the seeds.
- Garden Balsam seeds germinate best when the soil temperature is between 65°F and 75°F. Warm temperatures promote faster and more reliable germination.
- Garden Balsam seeds need light to germinate, so do not cover them with soil. Instead, gently press them into the soil or simply scatter them on the surface and lightly press them down.
- Germination typically takes 7 to 14 days under ideal conditions. Be patient and keep the soil moist during this period for the best results.
Growing Garden Balsam Seeds Indoors
Garden Balsam can be successfully started indoors.
Use a well-draining seed starting mix that is lightweight and sterile. Avoid garden soil, as it can contain pathogens that might harm the seeds. A mix of peat, perlite, and vermiculite works well to ensure good aeration and moisture retention.
Select containers such as cell trays, soil blocks, or small pots with drainage holes. Each container should be at least 2 to 3 inches deep to allow for root growth.
Sow the seeds about 1/8 inch deep or surface sow, similar to outdoor sowing. Gently press the seeds into the soil or lightly cover them with a thin layer of seed starting mix.
Keep the seed mix moist but not soggy. Lightly mist the surface of the soil to keep it evenly moist and avoid heavy watering that can dislodge the seeds.
The ideal temperature for germination is between 65°F and 75°F. Maintain a warm and consistent environment for the best germination rate.
Growing Garden Balsam seeds need light to germinate, so place the containers in a bright spot or under grow lights. If using grow lights, position them about 2 to 3 inches above the seedlings to provide adequate light.
Germination typically takes 7 to 14 days when grown under optimal conditions. Be patient, and make sure the seeds have consistent warmth, light, and moisture for the best chances of success.
When to Plant Out Growing Garden Balsam Plants
Balsamina starter plants should be planted into the garden after the last frost date in your area has passed, and when the soil has warmed to at least 60°F. This ensures the plants will not be exposed to frost, which can damage or kill them. It’s important to wait until the plants are strong enough to withstand outdoor conditions.
As a general rule, it is safe to plant out Garden Balsam when the outdoor temperatures are consistently above 50°F at night and daytime temperatures range between 60°F and 75°F. The plants should have grown to a sturdy size and developed at least two sets of true leaves before they are ready for transplanting.
Hardening Off Garden Balsam
Hardening off is the process of gradually acclimatizing your indoor-started Garden Balsam plants to outdoor conditions to prevent shock. Follow these steps to ensure the best transition:
About 7 to 10 days before you plan to plant the seedlings outdoors, begin the hardening off process. Start by placing the plants outside in a shaded, protected area for 1 to 2 hours on the first day. This will allow them to adjust to the outdoor light and air.
Gradually increase the amount of sunlight and time the plants spend outdoors each day. On the second day, you can extend their exposure to 3 to 4 hours and increase this duration each day.
Ensure that the plants are protected from strong winds and direct sunlight during the first few days of hardening off. You can provide partial shade with a cloth or place the plants in a sheltered area until they adjust.
Keep the plants well-watered, but avoid over-watering. Hardening off can cause the plants to dry out more quickly, so check the moisture level daily.
By the 7th to 10th day, your Garden Balsam seedlings should be ready to be planted in their final outdoor location. The plants should be well-adjusted to the sunlight, wind, and the outdoor environment.
Preparing the Garden Bed for Growing Garden Balsam
To ensure healthy growth and vibrant flowers, preparing the garden bed for Garden Balsam is essential.
Choosing a Location
Garden Balsam thrives in a partially shady location with some protection from wind. Choose a spot that receives at least 4 to 5 hours of partial sunlight per day, as this will encourage optimal blooming and robust growth. Avoid low-lying areas where water might pool, as Garden Balsam does not tolerate waterlogged soil.
Light Requirements
Garden Balsam prefers partial shade. While it can tolerate some sunlight, the plants may look tired in hot sun.
Moisture
Garden Balsam requires consistently moist soil, but it is important to ensure that the bed is well-draining to avoid root rot. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Good moisture retention can be achieved by mulching around the plants.
Soil Type Preferred
The ideal soil for Garden Balsam is loamy, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve its fertility and texture. Garden Balsam prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (around 6.0 to 7.0). If your soil is heavy clay or overly sandy, amending it with organic material will help improve drainage and moisture retention.
Planting Out Garden Balsam
Once your Garden Balsam starter plants have been hardened off and your garden bed is prepared, it’s time to plant them out. Follow these step-by-step instructions for successful planting.
Garden Balsam should be planted at the same depth as it was in its container or soil block. Make a hole in the soil large enough to accommodate the root ball, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface. Avoid planting too deeply, as this can cause the stem to rot.
Spacing
Growing Garden Balsam plants about 8 to 12 inches apart allows enough room for the plants to grow to their full width and prevents overcrowding, which could result in poor air circulation and potential disease issues.
Mulching
After planting, apply a layer of mulch around the base of each plant. Use organic mulch such as shredded bark, straw, or compost to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain an even soil temperature. Keep the mulch away from direct contact with the stems to prevent rot. A 2 to 3-inch layer of mulch should be sufficient for effective coverage.
Watering After Planting
Water the newly planted Garden Balsam thoroughly right after planting. This helps settle the soil around the roots and ensures that the plants are well hydrated.
Continue to water the plants regularly, especially during the first few weeks while they establish their roots. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Avoid watering the foliage to reduce the risk of fungal diseases; focus on watering the base of the plants.
Garden Balsam Care
Caring for your growing Garden Balsam plants ensures they remain healthy and vibrant throughout the growing season. Here’s a detailed guide to their care requirements:
Watering
Garden Balsams thrive in consistently moist soil, but it’s important not to overwater. Maintain regular watering throughout the growing season, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil moist but well-drained, avoiding waterlogged conditions.
Watering early in the day helps prevent fungal diseases by allowing the foliage to dry before nightfall. Be sure to water at the base of the plant, not the foliage, to reduce the risk of disease.
Feeding
While Garden Balsams are not heavy feeders, they do benefit from occasional fertilization. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season, or you can apply a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season.
Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. If the plant starts to look a bit leggy or not blooming well, a boost in nutrients can encourage better flowering.
Weeding
Regular weeding is important for Garden Balsams as weeds can compete for water, nutrients, and space. Keep the garden bed free of weeds by hand-pulling. Be gentle around the plants’ root systems to avoid disturbing them.
Mulching around the plants can help suppress weed growth and reduce the need for frequent weeding.
Pest Control
While Garden Balsams are relatively resistant to pests, they may occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies, especially in warm, dry conditions. Regularly check the undersides of leaves for pests and treat as needed.
Use organic insecticidal soap or Spinosad to control pests without harming beneficial insects like pollinators.
If you spot fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, improve air circulation around the plants and remove affected leaves to prevent spread. Avoid overhead watering to reduce humidity around the plant, which can encourage fungal growth.
Tips and Tricks for Growing Garden Balsam
Garden Balsams do not necessarily require pinching back, but it can help encourage bushier growth and more blooms. If you want to promote a fuller, more compact plant, pinch off the growing tips once the plants reach about 6 inches tall. This will stimulate side branching and lead to a denser, more vigorous plant with more flowers.
If you’re growing taller varieties or if your plants begin to flop over as they grow, consider using light staking or placing a support structure around the plant to keep it upright. Keep the support subtle, as the natural growth habit of Balsams is part of their charm.
Regular deadheading can encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season. Simply remove spent flowers to help prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production and to make room for new blooms.
Growing Garden Balsam tends to spread out, so give them plenty of space. Adequate spacing ensures good air circulation, which helps reduce the risk of disease and promotes healthier growth.
Adding organic matter like compost to the soil can improve drainage and provide essential nutrients, helping your plants thrive.
Growing Garden Balsam for Cut Flowers
Garden Balsams are well-suited for use as cut flowers and can bring vibrant color and texture to floral arrangements. Their bright, attractive flowers and soft, somewhat velvety petals make them a popular choice for cut flower displays.
The flowers bloom in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, red, white, and lavender, adding a cheerful touch to any bouquet.
When harvesting these flowers for display, it’s best to cut the stems early in the morning when the plant is hydrated, ensuring the longest vase life. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to make a clean cut just above a set of leaves, which will encourage the plant to produce new growth.
The vase life of Balsamina flowers is typically around 4 to 7 days, depending on the growing conditions and the care they receive post-harvest.
To extend their vase life, place the cut flowers in water immediately after cutting, and change the water every two days to keep it fresh and prevent bacterial growth. Trim stems slightly every few days to help water uptake.
These flowers can be used in a variety of floral arrangements, such as mixed bouquets, wedding centerpieces, or simple vase displays, thanks to their colorful, non-fussy nature. Their airy, open shape works well in informal and rustic-style arrangements, as well as in more structured floral designs.
How Long Do Garden Balsam Bloom?
Garden Balsam (Touch Me Nots) are typically grown as annuals in most climates, meaning they complete their life cycle within one growing season. After flowering, the plant’s colorful blooms will gradually fade as the plant matures. Garden Balsams do not usually survive the winter in areas with freezing temperatures, as they are sensitive to frost. However, they may reseed naturally if allowed to drop their seeds, and new plants can emerge the following spring.
In warmer regions (Zones 9-12), they may act as short-lived perennials but are still typically treated as annuals due to their frost sensitivity.
Collecting Garden Balsam Seeds
Harvesting and collecting seeds from your Garden Balsam plants is a simple process that allows you to save seeds for next season.
Balsamina plants produce elongated seed pods that start out green and gradually turn brown as they mature. Wait until these pods are dry and fully brown before harvesting. The seed pods are ready when they begin to split open naturally, releasing the seeds.
Cut the mature seed pods off the plant, being careful not to damage the pods, as the seeds inside will easily shaken loose.
Place the seed pods in a paper bag or container. Gently squeeze or shake the pods to release the seeds. You will see small, flat seeds inside, typically dark brown or black.
After collecting, spread the seeds on a dry surface such as a paper towel or newspaper to air-dry for a few days. Ensure that the seeds are fully dry before storing them to prevent mold.
Storing the Seeds: Once completely dry, store the seeds in a cool, dry place in an airtight container, such as a paper envelope, small jar, or seed packet.
Why You Should Start Growing Garden Balsam in Your Garden
Garden Balsams are a fantastic addition to any garden with their vibrant colors, unique blooms, and versatility. Whether you’re adding them to a partially sunny border, growing them in containers, or using them as cut flowers for bouquets, these easy-to-grow plants will bring beauty and joy throughout the growing season.
They’re not just lovely to look at—they’re beneficial for pollinators and can even be self-sustaining with reseeding potential. They’re sure to brighten any space and attract beneficial wildlife to your garden.