Coleus Broad Street Care

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 once every two or three days, or a bit more if you live in a dry climate. When using terra cotta pots, it helps to line the pot with plastic to help retain moisture in the soil.

To get full, bushy plants, pinch out the growing tips when the plants are about 6 inches tall. You can do this a few more times if you like, but after the plants start sending up flower stalks, you’ll be pinching out these stalks and getting the same results as pinching the tips.

Coleus is a classic part-shade to full-shade plant, but light exposure depends on the variety. The old-fashioned seed-grown coleus does best in part shade to full shade, but the newer cultivars have their best color if grown where they can receive more sun. However, it also depends on your climate. If you live in a hot, dry area, all types will need some shade, especially in the afternoon. In cooler areas with shorter seasons, the shade coleus will need more sun exposure to help them warm up.

Coleus prefers a consistently moist, rich, loose soil. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or another organic material. For potted plants, any good-quality peat-based potting mix will work fine.

Keep indoor plants away from air conditioner vents and other cold spots. In dry climates, the plants will like some humidity from a humidifier or a bathroom environment. To take potted plants outdoors in spring, wait until the temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer.

Some, but not all, coleus plant varieties contain diterpene coleonol, a compound that is toxic to animals. Unless you can confirm your plant is not toxic, it's best to keep it away from pets. If you suspect your pet has eaten any part of a coleus plant, contact a vet for recommendations.

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