Sorting Out SunPatiens

A municipal bed thick with SunPatiens in mixed sun and shade

We believe the SunPatiens series of Impatiens has turned into an important tool in the landscaper’s toolkit. It functionally replaces the lamented wallerina-type Impatiens, adds its own unique set of strengths, shores up some previous weaknesses, and delivers a very durable package at a very reasonable cost. What began as a fringe series in the Impatiens genre has become a genuine workhorse in the post-Impatiens world we live in today.

A good example of the color range within SunPatiens and their unusual leaf

In a bed, Helicrysum ‘Lemon’ offers great texture in bright green

Lovely ‘Lemon’ licorice plant has small, round, velvety soft leaves of pale yellow-green—more popularly known as chartreuse. We use it to add delicate texture alongside grasses and other foliage in a combo, or to make hot pink or purple flowers pop. In containers, plant it near the edge so it spills over the side of the pot. In the landscape it can be used as an accent in the front of the border or as a groundcover because it hugs the ground and spreads to about three feet.

Licorice plant is particularly easy to grow. For the best leaf color, give it some shade but it can also be grown in full sun. It also likes the heat and is drought tolerant, requiring very little water. As a matter of fact, it’s important to avoid overwatering because the plant cannot abide standing water. Deadheading is not needed, but ‘Lemon’ can be pruned back at anytime if you feel a little grooming is in order to maintain its elegant appearance.

Helichrysum ‘Lemon’ is available in the 1801 flat and the 4.5-inch pot.

In a container, ‘Lemon’ adds personality with its springs and tendrils

Summer grown Petunias ready for shipping

Just a reminder that we grow fresh crops for the summer season. Fresh for the summer means that you get new, prime material at the start of its life, not old, tired spring leftovers that are running out of gas. It also means that heat-loving material is actually grown in the heat, rather than starting back in the winter.

Fresh for the summer means better performance in the garden, longer lifespan on the bench, and a better choice of good-looking material for summer displays, shows, and presentations. Fresh for the summer is not something new for us—we’ve been growing crops for summer buyers since our beginning. If you want more than leftovers, come to Diefenbacher during the summer.