The Impatiens Walleriana or Busy Lizzie as it is more commonly known is a garden favourite and can be found in gardens across the world. With over 850 species the Impatiens genus is native throughout the Northern Hemisphere with the Walleriana being found more pre-dominantly in the Eastern African regions of Kenya and Mozambique.
Over the years, Busy Lizzies have become one of the UK's favourite garden bedding plants due to their ability to thrive in and add colour to shady areas. Sometimes referred to as 'Balsams' or 'Jewelweeds' Impatiens species can be both annual and perennial with some producing flowers from early summer through to the first frosts and others flowering all year long in warmer climates.
Some of the largest species of Impatiens can grow up to 2 metres tall and are an annual flower with non-stop blossoms in a host of amazing colours. Busy Lizzies are recognized for being garden plants that require minimal maintenance therefore are perfect plants for inexperienced gardeners, although they still remain a firm favourite amongst expert horticulturalists too.
Busy Lizzies can be planted in both containers and as bedding cover making them extremely versatile. They are well suited to the UK climate and if using seeds, can be sown between February and April, flowering from June to October. Busy Lizzies look fantastic when planted in mass and are extremely easy to propagate.
It is important to remember when planting Busy Lizzies do not really like too much sunlight therefore it is advisable to plant in locations that benefit from the morning sun, but that do not get the sun all day long. Moist soil or plenty of water is essential for Busy Lizzies in order to prevent withering from occurring.
Colourwise, Busy Lizzies range from white and salmon through to pink and red. They provide a nice range of colours that are perfectly suited to the summer months and are easy on the eye. Interestingly, there are no blue Busy Lizzies to date however some yellow varieties do exist but have only really been cultivated in recent years.
Popular types of Impatiens grown here in the UK include the Busy Lizzy Athena, Busy Lizzy Mr F's mixed and Busy Lizzy Safari. All are available in seed form and will provide a brilliant bloom of summer flowers. If bedding plants are required rather than seeds, your garden centre will be able to supply mixed varieties of Busy Lizzies that are ready to plant. This is great for anyone who needs immediate cover or does not have time to plant seeds.
Because these garden flowers are so incredibly easy to grow and maintain, it is of little wonder that Busy Lizzies are so popular in British gardens. With deep green leaves and a great colour choice, they look great in pots or hanging baskets as well as larger bedding displays.
Anyone wishing to utilise these fantastic plants in their gardens can grab them online by visiting Plant Me Now who stock a range of garden plants and flowers including Busy Lizzies. Visit the website today at www.plantmenow.co.uk.
