Planting And Care

Where the growing season is long, pinch the tips of the stems regularly to encourage branching and compact growth. When growing coleus, keep in mind that these beauties can grow rapidly. Plant coleus closes together as bedding plants or tucks them into baskets and containers for a fast-growing and spectacular addition. Another factor in coleus care is overwintering, as these plants, which are considered tender annuals, are highly susceptible to cold temperatures.

Coleus Care

Coleus plants should be grown in the garden in bright, indirect light, or in partial shade. The lower-growing dwarf varieties (6-12 inches) will create a colourful border, or you can use the taller (up to 36 ) types as a dramatic background planting.

Many Coleus plants will survive full sun exposure but the foliage colour is often enhanced when they are grown in the shade.
Coleus is also quite striking when they are planted in a container and grown as a house plant. By removing the flower spikes as they develop, and keeping the plant pinched back, the Coleus can be kept growing as a perennial for several seasons.

Sunlight

Dappled or partial shade

Watering

Evenly moist soil but not soggy. Container plants also require more frequent watering than those grown in the garden.

Soil

Good quality soil mix

Temperature

The average temperature is 90 degrees Fahrenheit

Fertilizer

A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks for plants in containers; in the ground, once a month is enough, with the fertilizer diluted to half-strength.

Coleus Uses

Ornamental Use:

• These plants are great for adding colour in the garden (or home), especially in those dark, drab-looking corners
• Their diversity of foliage colour, leaf shape, and growth habits make Coleus a valuable container and bedding plant, especially in shades where summer colour is scarce