4" is way too close for most common impatiens varieties adn 14" a bit too far. 10" is about right.

But the key to maximum flowering is good soil, enough moisture and *fertilizer*. I have good soil but add 5-10-10 when planting annuals. Then water with Miracle Gro once a week without fail all thru the season. You will be amazed.

For containers, I fertilize every single day at one-quarter strength.

I use Miracle-Gro but maybe other liquid fertilizers are just as good. Others can report.

Their tendancy is to grow low to the ground but if pressed for room they will grow taller. I plant my north facing house front with Impatiens every year. I put them in staggered rows about 6 inches apart. They fill in nicely and then start going up. At the end of the summer they will be 12 inches high in back and low--6 to 8 inches-- in front and covered in flowers.

What kind are you growing?

It varies drastically by type...

My accent impatiens I grow 6-8 inches apart and they get tall (12-24") and bloom like crazy from thier 'tips.'

My double impatiens I plant 12-18" apart because the have a different structure (tree like about 12" tall) and bloom on side shoots, not just their main stem.

Keriann~