Trailing sun-loving coleus is an easy-to-grow annual foliage plant that adapts well to hanging baskets and container gardens where it sprawling stems can drape over the edge of the planter.
Does coleus like sun or shade?
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. A balance is important for coleus beauty and health.
Does coleus come back year after year?
Do coleus come back? Hardy in USDA zones 10-11, coleus is a tender perennial but is most often grown as an annual. Since coleus are sensitive to cooler temperatures, they will only come back the following year in the warmest regions.
Do coleus do better in pots or in the ground?
Coleus can grow well in pots or the ground, making them a versatile addition to an outdoor space. The colorful foliage of Coleus will brighten up a patio, porch, or balcony. When grown in a container, the plant can easily be moved to a spot in need of color or an area that provides more favorable conditions.
Is there a trailing coleus? – Related Questions
How long do coleus plants last?
The average lifespan of a coleus plant is one year.
It’s not uncommon for indoor plants to live between 3-4 years if they are properly cared for, which means proper watering, sunlight, the right soil, and the right plant food to keep it green, and healthy.
How do I keep my coleus bushy?
It’s easy: you just need to pinch them. It may seem counterproductive to cut back a plant that you want more of, but pinching many annual and tender perennial plants—like coleus—encourages branching and full, bushy growth.
Do coleus do well in pots?
Coleus do well in pots and planters, as long as they are planted in free-draining potting soil, fertilized regularly and given the right amount of sun. Avoid windy locations because coleus can be prone to breakage.
Can you plant coleus directly in the ground?
There are some large coleus cultivars that grow over 30 inches tall, and when you plant them in the ground they really take off. The more space you give them to spread out their roots, the larger they grow. SuperSun ‘Plum Parfait’ above grows up to 3 feet tall and creates a nice hedge to back up other plants.
Can you put coleus in the ground?
Growing Coleus Plants
Coleus can be added to beds and borders for interest or grown in containers. They need fertile, well-draining soil and usually perform best in areas with partial shade, though many varieties can also tolerate sun. When growing coleus, keep in mind that these beauties can grow rapidly.
Are coleus good container plants?
Coleus are a perfect addition to container gardens because they are small, fast growing, and they can grow in a wide variety of sun conditions from full shade to full sun. There are also several varieties that are best for full sun, depending on your location.
Can coleus be in the sun all day?
Conditions: Coleus are tender tropicals that are generally grown as annuals because they are hardy only in USDA Hardiness Zone 11. They like warm soils with decent drainage. They are not happy in overly dry conditions. Coleus will grow in full sun to medium shade, but their colors are most vivid in full sun.
How often do you water coleus in pots?
Coleus in containers may need watering twice a day during hot weather. Outdoor containers may require water twice a day. Indoor plants need water only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Are coleus low maintenance?
Coleus is an easy-to-grow, low-maintenance plant. The plants prefer average to good soil, light and regular watering. They may droop when dry. Flower buds must be pinched off to prevent the plant from producing seed.
Should you water coleus every day?
How Often To Water Coleus. Newly planted Coleus will need to be watered daily for the first week. Once the plant is established, it may be able to go a few days before watering, depending on the weather and humidity in your area. Coleus has high water needs and generally prefers consistently damp soil.
Is coleus toxic to dogs?
Coleus is poisonous to dogs, and while the plant is not likely to be fatal if eaten, it can cause a reaction and illness. The leaves of Coleus contain diterpene coleonol and coleon O, which are toxic to dogs. Pets that ingest Coleus foliage may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and depression.
What temperature is too cold for coleus?
The lowest temperature coleus can tolerate is 33°F, but only for very brief periods of time. And that is really too cold for them. Though they can handle a light frost, if it dips below freezing for long, they will die. They prefer temps above 60°F – the hotter the better.
Can I leave coleus outside in winter?
Coleus is very frost-sensitive, so bring the plants inside if cold nights threaten. By mid-May, the plants should be ready for your garden or containers. Cuttings may also be taken from a large, healthy plant in late spring.