Coleus has very decorative, often multicolored foliage. It is mostly used as a houseplant, but you can also place this plant from Southeast Asia on the balcony or in the garden in summer.
How do I properly care for a coleus?
Coleus care consists of a bright, warm location, nutrient-rich soil, regular watering and protection from cold (not hardy). The coleus should not be below 15 °C, otherwise it may wilt or die.
Planting the coleus
The roots of the coleus need a lot of space so that they can develop well. It is therefore best to repot your freshly purchased nettle into a larger planter straight away. She will thank you with lush growth.
Add a little compost (€12.00 on Amazon) or fertilizer to the new potting soil, because coleus likes nutrient-rich soil. This also applies if you plant the coleus in the garden. Look for a bright and, if possible, wind-protected location.
Water and fertilize the coleus
Coleus is relatively thirsty and should be watered regularly, especially if it is in a sunny spot. If the root ball dries out completely, the coleus quickly sheds its leaves. Extensive watering may still save them. But you shouldn't let it get that far.
Propagate the coleus
Coleus can be propagated quite easily using cuttings. Since the leaf coloring of older plants is often less decorative than that of young plants, you should take cuttings from these plants in good time, then you don't have to buy new plants.
The coleus in the garden
If you would like to plant the coleus in your flower bed, then be sure to wait for the Ice Saints in May. Only when the temperature no longer drops below 12 - 14 °C at night should you put this plant outdoors. Because even in cold weather it may drop its leaves or wither.
Coleus in winter
Since coleus cannot tolerate cold, it can only overwinter in a warm house. Bring the plant into the warmth in a timely manner. Even temperatures of just under 15 °C cause the coleus to wilt and possibly die.
The most important care tips for coleus:
- bright warm location
- nutrient-rich soil
- water a lot
- not winterproof
Tip
Water your coleus regularly, it doesn't need much more care.