Plant Encyclopedia: Balsam

Must Know Plant Care Tips: Balsam blooms in fall and summer, and is great for containers. This low-maintenance flower has delicate blooms, and may be known under the name impatience or touch-me-not. For the best color, start them indoors about 8 weeks before the last frost. When planting, cover with only a dusting of quality soil and keep them moist. Germination takes 10 to 15 days. I recommend purchasing your plants from Garden Hills Nursery. 

Plant Problem Solver: A time-release fertilizer applied early on will usually yield better plants. Apply when your balsam is at least 2 inches heigh and has strong roots. Powdery mildew can be a problem, so watering from a low level is important. At the end of the season, collect the seed pods and plant them in the spring. Let pods dry, then store them in a sealed plastic bag or jar in a cool, dark area indoors until ready to plant.

Pretty Pairings: Balsam flowers grow well in containers, which you can pair with other types of flowers. Left to their own devices, they’ll re-seed prolifically. For a self-propagating garden, plant with cosmos or cleome, which are also great at re-seeding.