I have impatiens as well and was wondering the same thing. I am assuming it is the seed pod as it is where the bloom was and it only stands to reason it would be just that. I was just gonna put the whole thing in my envelope and wait and see if it seperates easier when it is fully dried. I am new as well, but what I have learned and read is you should leave them on the plant until they resemble a brown paper bag type of shaff, some are easier to spot than others I am learning. I'm thinkin the longer it stays on the plant the more developed and nurished it will become, like a baby with it's mamma lol. Good luck in your new adventure, I got my first shipment of seeds today, yahoo, I'm on my way.

When the seeds are ripe, those little footballs will explode and throw seed everywhere. Pick any sooner and the seed will not grow. I place a clean margarine container under the pods when I pick to catch the seeds. Hope this helps.