Coleus is a beautiful indoor plant, beloved for its vibrant colors and its ability to absorb oxygen and purify the air. However, to make coleus grow lush and healthy, some care techniques need to be mastered. Let's take a look at the care methods for coleus together.
Choose the right soil
Coleus prefers loose, well-draining soil. General potting soil can be mixed with loose materials like vermiculite and perlite to improve soil aeration. At the same time, it's not advisable to use soil that contains too much fertilizer, as excessive fertilizer can cause the plant to become leggy and the leaves to turn green.
Maintain suitable temperature
The ideal growing temperature for coleus is between 18°C and 25°C. Temperatures that are too high or too low will affect its growth. Especially during the hot summer months, it's important to ensure good ventilation and avoid direct sunlight, as this can easily cause the leaves to turn yellow and wither.
Control the amount of watering
Coleus likes a humid environment but does not like waterlogged soil, so the amount of watering should be controlled to avoid over or under-watering. Generally, watering once or twice a week is sufficient, but this should be adjusted according to the size of the plant and the ambient temperature.
Appropriate amount of fertilizer
Coleus prefers acidic soil, so you can add some acidic fertilizer when watering. However, the amount of fertilizer should also be moderate; too much will cause the plant to grow too fast, while too little will affect the color and texture of the leaves.
Prune in a timely manner
Coleus grows quickly, and if not pruned in time, it will affect its appearance and health. You can regularly prune the growing branches and leaves to keep it tidy and well-organized.
Note on lighting
Coleus prefers bright, indirect light or semi-shaded environments. Too much direct sunlight can cause its leaves to turn yellow or fade. When placing the plant, avoid direct sunlight and choose a spot with a shade net or low light transmission.
Pest and disease prevention
Coleus is susceptible to pests and viral infections, such as powdery mildew and aphids. Once a problem is detected, corresponding preventive and control measures should be taken promptly, such as spraying insecticides or antiviral drugs.
Regularly replace the soil
Coleus grows fast and can easily deplete the nutrients in the soil. The soil needs to be replaced once a year, and an appropriate amount of organic fertilizer should be added to ensure the plant's growth.
Moderate pruning
Coleus needs regular pruning to maintain its beauty and health. You can prune the growing branches and leaves to keep it tidy and well-organized.
Avoid excessive moisture
Coleus likes a humid environment but not one that is too damp. After watering, promptly remove any standing water to maintain soil aeration and dryness.
Avoid mold infestation
Coleus is susceptible to mold, so it's necessary to regularly clean the leaf surface and maintain a well-ventilated and dry environment. If you find leaves turning brown or with mildew spots, take timely measures to prevent and control it.
Note on environmental humidity
The ideal humidity for coleus growth is between 50% and 70%. Too dry or too humid conditions will affect its growth. In dry seasons, you can spray water on the leaves with a sprayer to increase air humidity.
Moderate relocation
Coleus needs to be moved moderately to avoid long-term growth in the same spot. At the same time, you can take the opportunity to inspect, prune, and perform other operations on the plant during relocation to ensure its healthy growth.
Note on irrigation methods
Coleus absorbs nutrients through watering, so the irrigation method is also important. Generally, you can pour water into a saucer and let the plant absorb it on its own. You can also use methods like drip irrigation to control the amount of water and avoid waterlogging.
Reasonably adjust fertilizer types
Coleus has a relatively small demand for fertilizer. Generally, you can choose acidic fertilizer or common flower fertilizer. However, when using fertilizer, it needs to be adjusted according to the plant's growth condition and its environment to avoid affecting its growth state.
Although coleus is not difficult to care for, it requires careful and patient attention. Only by mastering the correct care methods can coleus grow healthier and more beautiful.