The Facts

• Impatiens grow glossy green leaves and flowers in colors such as pink, white, purple and red. The plants grow to 2 1/2 feet in height with enough space -- and require large hanging baskets for balance and growing room.
  
  

Growing Conditions

• Plant impatiens in quick-draining potting soil combined with peat moss or organic compost to maintain soil moisture and nourish the plants. Impatiens do best with partial or filtered sunlight.
  
  

Watering

• Grown best in consistently moist soil, impatiens may suffer if the soil dries out. In outdoor garden areas, impatiens require 2 inches of water every week. According to North Carolina State University, though, potted flowering plants dry out more quickly than garden plants. Water hanging garden impatiens twice a week with 2 inches of water, and check them consistently for soil moisture levels.
  
  

Location

• Impatiens are more likely to dry out quickly if they sit in too much sunlight. To maintain the soil's moisture, ensure the pot hangs in a relatively shady location.
  
  

Mulch

• Organic mulch in the hanging basket helps maintain soil moisture and keeps impatiens from drying out. Gardeners should add 1 to 2 inches of organic mulch when they plant impatiens, and maintain this layer through the summer.