If you want to enjoy the stunning colors of coleus leaves, be sure to plant them in a location that receives plenty of sun or partial shade. These plants thrive in consistently moist but well-draining soil. It is important to note that coleus are considered tender perennials, meaning they will not withstand harsh winter weather conditions. In the UK they are normally grown as annuals and should be planted outdoors in May when there is no chance of frost.
However, if you want to keep your coleus plants for more than a year, you can bring them indoors during the fall or take cuttings in the summer to grow new plants the following spring. To grow coleus, choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight or partial shade and make sure the soil is moist and drains well. As coleus plants are short, they make a great addition to the front of a cultivated garden or in combination with other edible plants, or even in pots on a patio. For those growing coleus as a houseplant, be sure to place it in a bright location that also receives some direct sunlight.
To grow coleus, you can purchase young plants known as “plug plants” in early spring. To ensure optimal growth, it is recommended to grow them indoors until the weather has warmed up. Once May arrives and there are no signs of frost, you can plant them in your garden. Before planting them outside, it is important to acclimate them to outdoor conditions for a week. When preparing the soil, it is suggested to mix some multipurpose fertilizer. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the original pot, place the plant in it, and fill it around with soil. Water the plant well after planting. If you prefer to use a pot, dig a hole that is the same size and depth as the original pot. Plant the coleus at the same level and water it thoroughly.
To keep your coleus plant looking lush, remove the central stem after planting. During the summer, it is important to keep the plant well hydrated, especially if you grow it in a container. In case you choose to grow coleus in pots outdoors, consider transferring them indoors before the first frost arrives during the fall. On the other hand, for those who prefer to grow them as edible plants in the ground, it is advisable to take cuttings during the summer to have some plants for next year.
Growing more coleus plants is very easy with the right propagation method. During the summer, simply take cuttings and grow them in a greenhouse or conservatory for the next season. Here is how to proceed with cuttings:
When growing coleus plants outdoors, there is no need to worry about disease. However, if you decide to grow them indoors or in a greenhouse, keep an eye out for pesky insects like whiteflies, mealybugs, and mealybugs. Taking preventative measures can help keep these unwanted visitors away.
Source: https://www.hoмiful.coм