Coleus Care Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Coleus plants are known for their vibrant and colorful foliage, making them a popular choice for gardeners of all levels. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you grow and care for these beautiful plants:
Growing Coleus Plants
Coleus plants are relatively easy to grow. They prefer warm temperatures and well-drained soil. You can start them from seed indoors about two months before the last expected frost. Sow the seeds in a good quality seed starting mix and keep them moist. The seeds should germinate in two to three weeks.
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots or into the garden. Space the plants about 12 inches apart.
Coleus Plant Care
Light: Coleus plants prefer partial shade, but some varieties can tolerate full sun or deep shade. Check the plant label to determine the best light conditions for your variety.
Water: Water coleus plants regularly, especially during hot weather. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Temperature: Coleus plants are tropical plants and prefer warm temperatures. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but they will grow best in temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Humidity: Coleus plants enjoy humidity, so misting them regularly or placing them on a pebble tray filled with water can help to keep them healthy.
Soil: Coleus plants prefer fertile, well-drained soil. You can improve drainage by adding compost or perlite to the soil.
Fertilizer: Fertilize coleus plants monthly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizers that are high in phosphorus, as this can promote flowering, which is not desirable in coleus plants.
Coleus Varieties
There are many different varieties of coleus plants available, each with its own unique color and leaf shape. Some popular varieties include:
- Alabama Sunset: This variety has dark red leaves with a yellow-green margin.
- Dark Star: This variety has deep purple to nearly black leaves.
- Fishnet Stockings: This variety has a webbed color pattern of red on green.
- Inferno: This variety has bright orange-red leaves.
- Kong: This series of cultivars has a variety of colors and does best in full shade.
- Red Ruffles: This variety has wavy red leaves with green margins.
- Wasabi: This variety has bright chartreuse leaves.
Coleus Propagation
Coleus plants can be easily propagated by cuttings. To take a cutting, cut several inches off the top of a plant and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Root the cutting in water or in a well-draining potting mix.
Coleus Overwintering
If you live in a cold climate, you can overwinter coleus plants indoors. Bring the plants inside before the first frost and place them in a warm spot with indirect light. Water the plants sparingly and mist them regularly to keep them from drying out.
Coleus Pruning
Regular pruning helps coleus plants to promote bushier growth and prevents legginess. Pinch off growing tips above leaf nodes to promote branching and fullness. Coleus flowers are insignificant compared to the foliage and can be trimmed off as they develop.
Coleus Repotting
Repot coleus plants when they become rootbound or when they simply look too big for their pot. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current pot and has drainage holes. Use a good quality potting mix and water the plant well after repotting.
Common Coleus Pests and Diseases
Coleus plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. To prevent pests and diseases, keep your plants healthy and avoid overwatering.
Growing Coleus from Seed
You can start coleus plants from seed indoors about two months before the last expected frost. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining seed starting mix and kept moist. The seeds should germinate in two to three weeks.
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, you can transplant them into individual pots or into the garden. Space the plants about 12 inches apart.
FAQs
How long do coleus plants last?
Coleus plants are typically annuals, but they can be grown as perennials in warm climates. With proper care, coleus plants can last for several years.
Can you keep coleus indoors?
Yes, coleus plants can be grown indoors as houseplants. They prefer a warm spot with indirect light and well-drained soil. Water the plants regularly and mist them occasionally to keep them from drying out.
