How to prune impatiens balsamina

Pinch at planting (when 4–6 inches tall); midsummer for any cutback. Pinch the growing tip between thumb and forefinger when the seedling reaches 4–6 inches to encourage side shoots. For midsummer refresh, cut leggy stems back by one-third above a leaf node.

Once at establishment (pinching); midsummer cutback as needed; deadhead regularly if preventing self-seeding. Impatiens balsamina (garden balsam) is an annual that benefits from pinching when young to promote bushiness, but needs little pruning once established. Deadheading is optional as it self-seeds prolifically. Remove spent flowers if you want to prevent self-seeding. Cut back straggly stems in midsummer to encourage re-branching.

Pinch the growing tip between thumb and forefinger when the seedling reaches 4–6 inches to encourage side shoots. For midsummer refresh, cut leggy stems back by one-third above a leaf node.