Sunpatiens are vibrant flowering plants known for continuous blooms. While often treated as annuals, they are tender perennials, making overwintering a viable option to enjoy them year after year. This practice preserves favorite plants and saves on replacement costs.
Deciding to Overwinter Sunpatiens
As tender perennials, Sunpatiens can survive multiple seasons if protected from freezing temperatures. When deciding to overwinter, assess the plant’s health; only strong, pest-free specimens are good candidates for indoor survival. Evaluate the effort and indoor space required, as Sunpatiens need specific conditions. If space is limited or the plant is struggling, buying new plants in spring may be more practical.
Bringing Sunpatiens Indoors
Move Sunpatiens indoors before the first frost, or when nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 50°F (10°C). Before moving them, inspect plants for pests like spider mites or aphids to prevent indoor infestations. Clean foliage by wiping leaves to remove dust and insects. Lightly prune to reduce plant size and remove leggy or damaged growth. If your Sunpatiens are in garden beds, carefully dig them up and pot them in well-draining mix.
Indoor Winter Care for Sunpatiens
Light Requirements
Sunpatiens need ample light indoors. A south-facing window usually provides sufficient natural light. If natural light is limited, use supplemental grow lights for at least four hours of direct light daily. Inadequate light causes leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Watering Schedule
Sunpatiens require less frequent watering indoors during winter. Allow the top 2 to 3 inches of soil to dry before watering thoroughly. Overwatering is common and can lead to root rot, so check soil moisture carefully.
Temperature and Humidity
Sunpatiens thrive in indoor temperatures from 55°F to 85°F (13°C to 29°C), with ideal night temperatures around 60°F to 64°F (15°C to 18°C). Avoiding temperature extremes reduces stress. They prefer moderate to high humidity; if indoor air is dry, use a pebble tray or humidifier.
Pruning During Winter
Sunpatiens may develop leggy growth in winter due to lower light. Light pruning maintains shape and encourages bushier development. Remove yellowing, dead, or diseased foliage to promote plant health. Pinching back growing tips encourages side branching for a fuller plant in spring.
Pest Control
Indoor environments can attract common houseplant pests like spider mites, aphids, or thrips. Regularly inspect leaf undersides and stems for signs of these pests. If an infestation is detected, isolate the plant and treat it with insecticidal soap or by rinsing with water. Consistent monitoring prevents widespread issues.
Troubleshooting Winter Issues
Even with diligent care, Sunpatiens can face challenges indoors. Leaf yellowing not linked to overwatering may indicate a nutrient deficiency, especially if unfertilized. A diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer addresses this. Decline or lack of vigor, especially if plants appear stretched and pale, often stems from insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location or supplementing with a grow light improves its condition.
Spring Transition
As warmer weather returns, gradually prepare overwintered Sunpatiens for outdoor return. This process, called hardening off, involves slowly acclimating plants to outdoor conditions over 7 to 14 days. Start by placing them in a shaded, sheltered spot for a few hours daily, gradually increasing sun and wind exposure. Once frost danger passes and outdoor nighttime temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C), move plants outdoors permanently. Before planting, refresh container soil or add new potting mix for fresh nutrients; this gradual transition prevents transplant shock and prepares plants for a robust growing season.