The coleus plant has been available to gardeners for decades in a large variety of colours. In the past, they were a favourite for planters and shade gardens because they are durable and easy to grow and are best known for their bright colours and variety of foliage forms. It is interesting to note that coleus is from the mint family.
With new hybridized varieties on the market, the colour and foliage appeal seems to be endless with the addition of many new plants that will now thrive in a variety of light conditions ranging from full sunlight to partial shade.
Coleus plants may be grown in the garden in bright, indirect light, or partial shade. The intensity of light which the plant receives will also have a direct bearing on the intensity of the foliage colouring. Some varieties may produce their best colour in light shade, while others look best in bright lighting. Make sure you check the care tag in the container before you buy in order to get the plants with the proper light requirements for your needs. The lower growing dwarf varieties (8 to 15 centimetres) will create a colourful border or you can use the taller (three foot) types as a dramatic background planting. Coleus are also quite striking when they are planted in a container or you can also use coleus for mass plantings, a front of back border or as a companion plant to something else. The mixtures of foliage and colours with other perennials and annuals can be endless.
In our area, coleus is considered a tender annual as even the slightest frost will cause them to die. Coleus like an evenly moist soil that drains well. Coleus also make nice houseplants as long as they receive sufficient light and food. Your Coleus should be planted in a light, quick draining commercial potting soil. Place it where it will receive several hours of bright light (south window) each day or provide artificial grow lighting for best leaf colour and fullness. Coleus plants will adapt to a wide range of temperatures above 16 C (61 F), but will grow best when they are kept between 20 and 33 C (68 and 91 F). Keep the soil evenly moist, but never soggy. Fertilize coleus with houseplant fertilizer as per the instructions on the package. Flower buds must be pinched off as soon as they develop to prevent the plant from producing seeds because once a coleus is allowed to go to seed it has completed its life objective and will usually die. Pinching may also be necessary to prevent leggy growth. Any time that the tip growth is removed, the plant’s energy will be diverted to the lateral side growth, creating a much bushier plant.
So why don’t you try some coleus this season in your garden? I have had them in containers and as houseplants and have had great success with both methods.
