Bright velvety leaves, an unusual pattern on the leaves, different shades - all this is one flower - coleus. It is very popular among flower growers, and many are trying to breed as many different species of this plant as possible. But how to take care of this flower so that it remains as beautiful and bright all year round?
Instructions
Step 1
Growing Coleus at home is not difficult at all. This is one of the most unpretentious plants, the main thing for it is a sunny place, a high-quality nutrient medium and regular watering.
Step 2
You can buy Coleus seeds at any flower shop. F1 seeds, Wizard series, Kong are best suited for home cultivation. Seedlings should be planted in early April. Pour the prepared peat into a container, moisten it evenly and plant the seeds at some distance from each other. They will sprout in about a week. Be sure to place the seedlings under a lamp or in a well-lit place.
Step 3
In about a month, the seedlings will germinate. They can now be planted in pots and containers. It is necessary to transplant plants into a mixture of peat, to which you can add humus and a tablespoon of ash. Since Coleus really needs bright lighting, provide the plant with light. With an abundance of sun, the leaves of the coleus will quickly become colored and acquire the optimal size. Remember that coleuses are afraid of frost. Therefore, you should not take them out in the spring to the street or balcony. It is better to wait for stable warm weather and leave them outside without fear.
Step 4
In order to get a compact plant bush, it is necessary to form it correctly. Pinching off growing shoots will allow double the number of new shoots to grow. It is also useful to break off the rudiments of the peduncles. This procedure will give the leaves more brightness and velvety.
Step 5
Another way to grow coleus is from a cuttings. Tear off a stalk of Coleus in the summer and put it in water. In a few days, he will give the first roots. You can just stick the cutting into the ground and let the plant take root.
Step 6
Coleus care consists of regular watering and feeding. This plant especially loves organic and mineral fertilizers. Remember to feed the plant during the growing season.
Step 7
In the summer, Coleus grows very quickly and forms lush leaves. But in winter, the plant partially loses its foliage. Transplant it into fresh soil in the spring and start shaping again. After a while, the stalks of the Coleus will again delight you with bright shoots.
