These succulent, branched perennial herbs grow up to 1'3" tall, mounding with lower leaves up off the ground. New Guinea Impatiens tolerate full sun, but are a water guzzler and tend to look wilted when heat loads are high and water is less plentiful, making this plant have a low drought tolerance.
They grow very well in both containers and garden beds, and they like full sun or partial shade. For the first week or two after planting, they should be watered every day to get them established. After that, they need only moderate watering and can usually be revived from wilting with a good dose of water.
An alternative way to fertilize is to apply water-soluble fertilizer at one-third the label rates, as needed; do not over fertilize.
In most cases, SunPatiens should not be cut back to control size as it alters their natural form; but, if Vigorous types get taller than desired in mid- to late summer, they can be cut back, taking off the top one-third of growth.
SunPatiens grow well under a wide temperature range. Establish the crop at an average temperature of 64-66° F. Once established, optimum temperatures range between 68-85° F during the day and 60-64° F at night. Lower temperatures are possible but will prolong crop time.
Sunpatiens is a rather new Impatiens hybrid. As a result, the ASPCA as well as other reputable animal care organizations have not yet listed it as a toxic or non-toxic substance. However, since it is a member of the Impatiens family, it is safe to assume that it is safe around dogs.