Coleus is visible from afar with its colorful foliage. Nevertheless, she almost never gets any pest visits. It is also not very susceptible to disease and is more likely to be damaged by incorrect care. It's strange that it has holes. A search for clues begins.
Why does coleus have holes in its leaves?
A diagnosis based on this damage pattern alone is hardly possible. Take a closer look at the coleus, especially the damaged leaves. You may be able to spot anypests. Anunfavorable location outside in the blazing sun can also have damaged them.
What pests make holes in plant leaves?
Outdoors are mainly snails, fleas,ants,leaf bugsandcaterpillarsfor Leaf holes responsible. Outside or in the basement,woodlicecan have eaten the plant. The coleus also attractswhiteflies, which are soon followed by sooty fungi. If your coleus is suffering from these pests, you need to get rid of them as quickly as possible.
- Collect pests
- rinse with water
- use a home remedy
- if applicable. change your location
What should I do with holey leaves?
Remove any leaves that have holes in them. If a large part of the coleus is affected, cut it back vigorously. It no longer looks decorative afterwards, but it quickly sprouts again. Wear gloves while cutting, as coleus is considered slightly poisonous and can cause allergic reactions. As long as the cause is not found, move the coleus away from other plants and continue to observe it.
How can the sun be responsible for holes?
Coleus nettles (Solenostemon scutellarioides) need to be watered regularly in summer. Especially if they grow in pots or balcony branches. They always have to be supplied with water from below, but this is often not done. When watering from above, smallwater dropletstemporarily remain on the velvety leaves. If the day is very hot or if watering occurs at midday, theylike a magnifying glass intensify the sun. The burnt areas first become brown and dry, later the dried leaf tissue falls out and holes remain.
Tip
Coleus is popular with bees, let them bloom
The lipped flowers, rich in nectar, make coleus a bee-friendly plant from June to the end of October. Leave a few shoot tips standing so that flower spikes can form on them.
