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Coleus comes in three forms: upright, rounded and trailing. They range in height from 6 inches to 3.5 feet and grow 1 to 3 feet wide.
How long do coleus plants live for?
While the lifespan of an average coleus plant is one year, you can prolong its life by pruning. Watch out for any small flower buds and prune it before the flower buds bloom. This is because once the plant starts producing flowers and seeds it will soon die.
How quickly does coleus grow?
It’s easy to grow coleus from seed. It can take as long as 21 days for the seeds to germinate, so be patient. Once seedlings appear, it will take three or four weeks of warm weather to help turn them into fully grown plants.
Will coleus come back every year?
Taking a perennial to a location where cold winters kill it does not make it an annual. Coleus is a perennial, a tropical shrub, that is not hardy except in warm, frost-free zones.
How much space does coleus need?
Propagation: Coleus are easy to grow from cuttings. Wait to put plants outdoors until spring nights remain above 50°F. I give midsize plants and trailing types 18 inches of space. Larger coleus get 2 feet if I can spare it; if not, I confine them to the available area with judicious pruning.
Is coleus a sun or shade plant?
Coleus thrive in cool, evenly moist, well-drained soil. Some modern coleus varieties handle full sun, but most still flourish with at least dappled shade and direct sun limited to morning hours. Too much sun or intense midday rays leave foliage scorched and faded; too little light causes weak growth.
Is coleus a good houseplant?
Although coleus is typically grown outdoors as an annual, its vibrant leaves provide many months of enjoyment indoors if growing conditions are just right. In fact, coleus plants respond well to potted environments.
Why is my red coleus turning green?
Your coleus plant is most likely turning green because it isn’t getting enough light to maintain its original color. Coleus plants need lots of sunlight to keep their color, so if they aren’t getting enough, you’ll need to give it more to restore their beautiful hues.
How long do coleus plants live for UK?
Mild-Winter Areas In a frost-free area, coleus normally lives for several years. In USDA zones 10 through 11, the winter is mild enough to plant coleus in the ground. Coleus appreciates moist soil that drains well. Keep it out of intense sun, as it easily scalds.
Are coleus slow growing?
A few winters ago I had a collection of unhappy coleus plants. They did not die, but they grew very slowly, even with plenty of water and fertilizer. The plants are fast growers, even in midwinter, and they look best when stems are short and leaves are overlapping. Cut back a coleus any time, as much as you like.
How do I make my coleus bushy?
You can make coleus bushy by routinely pinching the stems and leaves from the plant. Over time, the main stem or trunk of your coleus will become strong and support a larger, fuller plant. Regular feeding with a diluted liquid fertilizer can also promote growth.
Can I leave coleus outside in winter?
Winterizing Coleus Seeds When nighttime temperatures rise above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s safe to move them outdoors. Transition the coleus by bringing them outside during the day and indoors at night, suggests the University of Minnesota Extension.
Are coleus toxic to dogs?
Like many other essential oils, the oil from the coleus is toxic to your dog and can be absorbed through the skin immediately, causing irritation and possible burns to the skin and depression of the central nervous system. The coleus has green fleshy leaves and hairy stems with small purple flowers.
Can coleus be planted outside?
If you are growing coleus plants outdoors—either in the ground or in containers—the same care instructions apply. Plant the coleus in bright locations with partial shade and ensure that soil is always moist and never too damp or soggy.
Where is the best place to plant coleus?
Plant coleus in a sunny or partly shaded spot, in moist but well-drained soil. Coleus are low growing, so they look best at the front of a border, combined with other bedding plants, or in pot on a patio. If you’re growing coleus as a house plant, grow it in a bright spot that gets a little direct sun.
Can coleus grow in pots?
Plant your coleus in a sturdy container that won’t tip over if it does get to be 2 feet tall. Fill your container with well-draining soil and fertilize moderately. Be careful not to over fertilize, though, or your coleus in pots may lose their brilliant color. Water regularly, keeping the soil moist.
Should you pinch the flowers off coleus?
To maintain plant form, pinch back every few weeks to prevent flower formation. Some gardeners leave the small flowers, but it’s best to pinch them off to direct more energy into stem and foliage growth. Coleus left to flower may lose vigor as the plant puts energy into seed production.
