Balfour's Touch-Me-Not
impatiens balfouri
Also known as: ["Balfour's Impatiens","Balfour's Busy Lizzie"]
Overview
A delicate annual or short-lived perennial plant known for its vibrant, spurred flowers and succulent foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Balsaminaceae |
| Genus: | Impatiens |
| Botanical Name: | Impatiens balfouri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed with protection from intense afternoon sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; major pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for shaping or rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to new light conditions, protect from intense midday sun, and adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor settings.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to filtered light
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, organic-rich potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); prefers cooler temperatures in winter to encourage dormancy.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a thermometer to monitor microclimates; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer, reducing in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; match fertilizer to plant's growth stage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide gentle warmth for roots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems to just above a leaf node; remove dead or leggy growth selectively.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/faded flowers; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out compacted roots; place in a slightly larger pot with drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage, and allow excess water to drain completely to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if prolonged.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to water stress.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicImpatiens balfouri is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would harm felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicImpatiens balfouri is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would pose a risk to canine health if ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicImpatiens balfouri is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Impatiens balfouri?
A: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring the plant does not sit in water to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Impatiens balfouri require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full shade, as direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Q: Are the flowers of Impatiens balfouri fragrant?
A: Yes, the flowers are known for their subtle, sweet fragrance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Balsaminaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to filtered ligh |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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