Coleus

Coleus plants need to be watered regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Water the soil until it is saturated and just beginning to drain out the bottom of the pot. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings. They are more tolerant of drought than overwatering, and too much damp soil can cause root rot.

Coleus is not picky about the light it receives, but they generally prefer bright indirect light and can tolerate low light conditions. Too much light can cause the foliage to become pale and washed out, while too-little light can cause the foliage to become leggy and floppy. Their leaves may still be vivid in low light, but they can lose their bright colors when exposed to direct sunlight for too long.

Coleus is happiest in temperatures between 60-90 ºF (or 15-32 ºC) and is quite tolerant of heat and humidity. They can tolerate a brief cold snap down to 50 ºF (or 10 ºC) but should not be exposed to extreme temperatures.

Coleus does not require misting or especially high humidity. Since their natural habitat is in the tropics, a little extra humidity, up to 50%, helps keep them looking their best. Low humidity around 25% or less can cause leaves to become crispy.

Coleus does best in a moist, well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. A light potting mix with some perlite, sand, or other light material added for drainage works well. They do not need heavy soil and tend to rot in perennially wet soil.

Coleus needs to be fertilized monthly during the spring and summer months with a balanced liquid fertilizer. In the fall and winter months, a balanced slow-release fertilizer can be used instead. Avoid fertilizer with too much nitrogen, as it can cause the leaves to become too floppy and pale. Due to its strong colors, it may also benefit from foliar feeding, in which liquid fertilizer is sprayed onto the leaves.

Coleus is prone to many of the same common garden pests, such as aphids, whiteflies, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with a gentle insecticidal soap or a diluted solution of rubbing alcohol and neem oil. Dryness also discourages spider mites, which can get out of control in warm, humid air.

Coleus should be repotted every year or two to keep the soil fresh and provide them with the necessary nutrients. It is best to repot them in early spring or late fall before the plant starts growing actively. When repotting, put it in a pot only 1-2 inches larger than the current one and use a well-draining potting mix.

Coleus need to be pinched back frequently to promote full growth and keep the plant full and bushy rather than leggy. The plant can be cut back up to 18 inches (or 45 cm) from the base of the plant without impediment. Coleus can be pruned or trimmed back any time during the active growth period.

During the active growing season, mulch your Coleus lightly with a layer of organic matter such as compost or peat moss. This will help the plant retain moisture and keep the roots cool during the heat of summer.

Coleus is easily propagated from stem cuttings or by dividing the root ball. For stem cuttings, cut a healthy stem just below a node (where leaves emerge from the stalk) and leave the stem in water until it starts to root. These sections can then be planted in moist soil. To divide the root ball, simply split off sections from the root ball and repot each section in its own pot.

Coleus may need support when it gets too large, especially in windy conditions. If you are growing a tall variety, you will need to provide a stake or other support for the plant.

Coleus does not need a rest period, although it may not be as active in the winter months as it is during the summer growing season. Keep the plant well-watered and it will be ready to start growing when the temperatures rise in spring.

Coleus plants are generally safe for pets. While it is not toxic, it could still be harmful if eaten due to its bitter taste.