How to Grow Balsam Double Blackberry
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Balsam Double Blackberry
Impatiens balsamina var. double
flowerBalsam Double Blackberry is an ornamental flowering annual known for its stunning double flowers in deep purple-black tones that resemble miniature roses. This heirloom variety produces abundantly throughout the growing season, thriving in partial shade with moist soil. It's a classic cottage garden plant that self-seeds readily and makes excellent cut flowers.
When should you plant Balsam Double Blackberry in your zone?
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Example Balsam Double Blackberry timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Balsam Double Blackberry
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Balsam Double Blackberry blooms
Around Jun 1≈ 45 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Balsam Double Blackberry dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9, can be grown as annual in zones 3-4
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Seed Germination
7-14 daysTiny seeds begin sprouting with emergence of cotyledons; requires light and consistent moisture
Keep soil moist and warm (70-75°F); provide bright indirect light; thin seedlings to prevent damping off
Seedling Development
3-4 weeksTrue leaves emerge; plant develops sturdy stem and root system; ready for transplanting when 1-2 inches tall
Maintain moisture; provide bright indirect light; fertilize weekly with diluted balanced fertilizer; harden off before transplanting
Vegetative Growth
2-3 weeks after transplantingPlant grows bushy with increasing stem and leaf production; no flowers yet, but compact branching structure forms
Pinch back growing tips to encourage bushiness; maintain consistent soil moisture; mulch around base; deadhead any early buds
Flowering
8-12 weeks or until frostDouble flowers in deep purple-black tones emerge from leaf axils; blooms appear in clusters and continue profusely
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming; water at soil level; apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks; support tall stems if needed
Seed Production & Self-Seeding
Final 2-4 weeks before frostIf flowers are left on plant, they develop seed pods that explode when ripe, scattering seeds nearby
Allow some flowers to mature if you want self-seeding next year; collect seed pods manually before they burst for controlled propagation
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Increase humidity; spray with water; use neem oil or insecticidal soap; isolate infested plants
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab; spray with insecticidal soap; improve air circulation
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Spray with strong water stream; use neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; increase air circulation; spray neem oil
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and
(Gastropoda)
Hand-pick at dusk; create barriers with copper tape; use beer traps; encourage ground beetles
Uses
Edible Ornamental Garnish
CulinaryBalsam flowers are edible and can be used to garnish salads and desserts for visual appeal. They add a delicate, slightly sweet flavor and make stunning cake decorations. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
CraftThe double blackberry flowers are excellent for cutting and arranging in bouquets, vases, and floral designs. They hold their color well and create dramatic focal points in arrangements. [source]
Traditional Herbal Uses
MedicinalIn traditional Asian medicine, Impatiens species have been used to treat skin conditions and inflammation. The plant has been researched for potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe abundant flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and other beneficial insects, making it valuable for supporting pollinator populations in shade gardens. The seeds also attract birds. [source]
Heirloom Seed Saving
HouseholdThis variety self-seeds readily and is easy to collect seeds from due to the explosive seed pods. Gardeners can save seeds for free propagation year after year, making it economical. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in early morning or late evening when stems are fully hydrated; harvest when double flowers are fully open but before petals begin to wilt; cut just above a leaf node to encourage branching; flowers last 5-7 days in a vase with fresh water changed every 2 days; for seeds, allow pods to brown on plant, then collect and dry before storing
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'balsam' comes from the resinous scent of the foliage, and the seed pods are famous for their 'explosive' dispersal mechanism—ripe pods burst open at the slightest touch, flinging seeds several feet away as a natural survival strategy.
- 🌱 Double balsams are heirloom varieties that have been cultivated for centuries, particularly popular in Victorian cottage gardens, and they represent one of the oldest ornamental flower breeding projects.
- 🌱 The flowers paradoxically prefer shade despite being called 'busy Lizzie' or 'impatiens,' and they'll actually produce MORE flowers with less direct sun than their sun-loving relatives—a trait that makes them ideal for challenging shady garden spots.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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