Coleus

Coleus are grown for their wonderful foliage color and patterns. Shades of green, red, pink, and purple branch out making a statement. They are great for container gardens and ground beds. Whether you are looking for sun or shade, tall or trailing, there is a coleus for that!

Light: There are so many different varieties of coleus. Most coleus can handle sun, some more than others. The Wizard and Flame Thrower varieties work well in sun and tolerates shade if needed. The Main Street variety can handle full sun meaning 5 hours of sunlight or more.

Temperature: Average summer temperature above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Delicate foliage is susceptible to cooler temperatures and will start to shrivel.

Water: Water evenly throughout the growing season keeping soil slightly moist. Not enough water will result in drooping foliage. If caught in time it can be saved. Try not to over water. It is harder to bring an overwatered plant back to health.

Nutrients: Use a slow-release fertilizer that comes in pre-mixed potting soils or mix in a granular, like Osmocote, into plain potting soil. If you don’t want to use a slow-release option, you can also use a diluted liquid feed every 2 weeks or so.

Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. Always select a container with drainage.

Container Design: Coleus plants come in many different sizes and growing habits. Some are tall reaching about 2 feet, some are low growing achieving 8-12”, while others are trailing, cascading to about 1-2 feet long. They can be used as Thriller, Filler, and Spiller plants depending on their growing habits. Their versatility in the garden is incredible

Deadheading: Pinch back flowers as soon as they appear. This will help create a fuller, compact plant with more branching. Once plant is at desired fullness let flower, if desired. If trailing coleus grows too long, simply trim back to the desired length.

Happy Planting: Coleus are desired for their amazing foliage color and variety. Some can grow as tall as 2 feet while others can cascade as long as 2 feet. Whether you have sun or shade there is a coleus for that. Enjoy in container gardens and ground beds. Start a collection and see how many you can grow this season!