Once again this year, my impatiens grew to about 24″ tall (they are in dappled shade). I fertilized occasionally with Bloom Builder, which has a higher proportion of phosphorous. The quality and quantity of the blooms were very good, but not quite as prolific as the low-growing types I have seen. Are there specific varieties of impatiens that are low-growing, and if so, what are some of the names? If not, what can I do to encourage lower, bushier growth?

Understand that the amount of shade will directly effect the height and bud count on all varieties of impatiens.

Since the sun is a natural growth retardant, plants tend to stay shorter and will have considerably more flower power. If you are dealing with heavier shade and desire shorter plants, try spacing impatiens further apart when planting next spring. Impatiens are natural spreaders, forming a low ground cover…but once they grow together the growth goes up instead of out. If you are used to a 6 inch spacing, try an 8 inch spacing to prolong the bushiness and control height for a longer period.

There are several shorter varieties of impatiens. Both the Super Elfin and Accent series are heavy bloomers, come in a wide assortment of colors, and stay shorter than other varieties.