![]() Growing indoors:Ĭoleus do quite well when overwintered indoors as a houseplant. We recommend using self-watering containers. However, avoid overly damp soil, as this can cause leaf drop or root rot. Coleus are thirsty plants, so keep the soil moist. For containers, add a slow-release fertilizer at the time of planting and supplement with water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks, or as needed Watering: Feed in-ground plants monthly with a water-soluble or liquid fertilizer-to promote lusher growth and richer leaf colors. Amendments & fertilizer:Ĭoleus does best with regular fertilizing. Use a high-quality, well-draining potting soil in containers. Soil:Ĭoleus thrives in any average, moist, but well-draining soil. Since coleus are mainly grown for their vibrant colors, there’s no need to waste the plant’s energy on flowering or setting seed. ![]() To promote denser and more compact growth, pinch out flower spikes before they elongate. Keep plants looking tidy and maintain their size and shape by pinching or trimming stem tips. Backfill with soil, tamp down slightly to remove air pockets, and water well. Place in the ground with the base of the stem at the same level it was in the pot. Dig a hole slightly deeper and wider than the root ball. ![]() Amend the planting area with compost or other rich organic matter. Make sure young plants are hardened off to the light and temperature conditions of the site before planting. Also, choose a wind-protected area, as their semi-succulent stems are prone to breakage. Darker-leaved varieties tend to handle more sunlight better than those with lighter-colored leaves. For the best leaf color, a location that receives morning sun and dappled afternoon shade is best. The amount of light can have a dramatic impact on plant size and leaf color. Any amount of frost will damage coleus plants. Transplants should only be planted long after the danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed to at least 60 degrees. Start coleus seeds indoors, 8 to 12 weeks before last frost date. Planting ColorBlaze® Dipt in Wine PLANTING COLEUS When to plant: Rated a ‘C’ on the Rutgers Deer-Resistant plants list, stating they’re occasionally severely damaged. The essential oils they contain are toxic to dogs, cats and other animals. Is coleus poisonous?Ĭoleus are non-toxic to humans, but the sap can cause minor skin irritation. A member of the mint family, coleus have unique square stems that this group of plants is known for. ![]() Coleus leaves range from one to six-inches long, and also come in many different shapes and sizes. Color & characteristics:Ĭoleus plants have a wide range of color variation, from bright chartreuse to hot pink to near-black, and any number of combinations. However, plants grown from cuttings won’t flower as often, if at all. When do coleus bloom?Ĭoleus plants will bloom with racemes of tiny white or bluish flowers any time of the year. Exposure:įull sun to shade, depending on variety. Varieties 6 inches to 3-1/2 feet tall and 1 to 3 feet wide. Hardy to Zone 10, but can be overwintered indoors in colder areas. Plectranthus scutellarioides, Solenostemon scutellarioides) On this page: Basics | Planting | Care | Varieties | Design IdeasĬoleus scutellarioides (syn. Although technically an evergreen perennial, coleus are usually grown as annuals because these tender tropical plants can’t handle even the slightest frost. Their bold and beautiful foliage make them the center of attention no matter where they’re planted. Heat and sun-tolerant varieties are widely available, making them a popular choice for any outdoor planting. Photo by Proven Winners.Įasy-to-grow coleus plants aren’t just shade plants anymore.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |