Coleus species and varieties. Rules for successfully planting coleus in the garden

Among plants with decorative leaves, coleus occupies a special place. Its heart-shaped leaves have a multicolor coloring, with which, in addition to green, there are yellow, burgundy, red and purple colors. With the light hand of flower growers, the coleus was once called the "croton of the poor" for the similarity of its color with the color of croton and the relative cheapness and unpretentiousness in care.

However, in less than two hundred years, coleus selection has reached such levels that croton, in comparison with some varieties of coleus, looks like a very ordinary plant. Coleus is a perennial plant native to the tropics of Asia or Africa. In our climate, coleus, as a perennial plant, can only be grown at home.

plant description

The name "coleus" comes from the Greek word for "case", and it was obtained due to the special arrangement of the flower. In it, the filaments grow together, visually forming a kind of case. There is currently some confusion about correct name plants and their classification.

For quite a long time, Coleus belonged to a separate genus Coleus. However, relatively recently, its generic affiliation was revised and all of its decorative varieties were assigned to the genus Spurflower.

Coleus of different varieties

Until now, in the literature you can find different names for the same plants, but belonging to different genera. There is even a whole table of synonyms, created so that flower growers are not mistaken by calling the same species by different names. So, for example, one of the species - Coleus Forskolia "officially" is now called the bearded spur flower.

Traditionally, almost all decorative coleus in floriculture are called coleus, but sometimes some meticulous author will definitely mention their new, “botanical” name. Coleus is a bushy plant with a dozen stems, woody at the base.. The height of home plant forms rarely exceeds one meter. The stems of the coleus are strong, with a clear ribbed structure.

Rasterium stem with leaves and inflorescence

Coleus flowers are of no interest to flower lovers - they are small, most often blue or blue, collected in spike-like inflorescences.

Coleus flowers close up

The main decoration of the plant is the leaves. They are paired, from 6 to 15 cm long, most often heart-shaped, but there are also oval shapes. Most species have pointed leaves; they also have a subtle pubescence. Outwardly, the leaves are similar to nettles, so the coleus has another household nickname - "nettle".

The variety of colors of coleus leaves is amazing

The plant's root system is fibrous but not overly extensive, although its soft roots can penetrate deep enough.

In fact, it is a perennial and under natural conditions can grow in one place for several decades, since it is absolutely unpretentious to external conditions. In our climate, even in the southern regions, it cannot winter outdoors. Already when the temperature drops below + 8 ° C, irreversible processes begin in the plant, it first loses foliage, and then dies completely.

Feels relatively good at home and greenhouse conditions. However, the combined effect of light, air and heat in greenhouse conditions is a bit lacking. The plant will grow relatively well and even bear fruit, however, and it will not be possible to repeat, for example, the size of its counterparts growing in the tropics.

It is believed that this does not play a special role, since the coleus is used in decoration, as a plant of the lower and middle tiers. Some generally refer it in design almost to cover plants. But this is a little different. Coleus perfectly perceive pruning of stems and foliage, and standard cultivation is applicable to them. Therefore, many flower growers do not leave efforts to bring out coleus, reaching at home the size of species growing in wild nature.

Lighting

Most coleus are photophilous plants. Moreover, variegated coloring appears only in the presence of a sufficient level of illumination. The less green on the leaves, the more sunlight it needs. There is a fairly simple explanation for this - the amount of chlorophyll in the variegated areas is significantly less than in the green areas, therefore, these areas have a greater need for solar energy.

And vice versa - plants with a predominantly green leaf color or completely green varieties are best planted in partial shade, they do not need a lot of sunlight. Thus, it is desirable to place variegated varieties of coleus on the windowsills of the southern windows, with a predominant green tint on the eastern and western windows, and completely green varieties on the northern windows.

At the same time, do not forget about the length of daylight hours. Whatever the intensity of lighting, its duration should not be less than 12 hours. All coleus varieties need additional “illumination” with artificial lighting. As such, you can choose fluorescent lamps or special phytolamps.

There are only a few varieties of coleus that can tolerate direct sunlight normally. In most, they cause burns, in the form of yellow spots appearing on the leaves, and then brown spots. If you encounter such manifestations, it is better to use some means to darken the plant. It can be special translucent screens, nets or a veil. Green plants, already located in partial shade, do not need to be additionally shaded.

There is also the possibility of receiving excess solar energy, but without the appearance of burns. If the plant began to take on a faded and dim appearance, then most likely it receives too much light. In this case, it is necessary to move it to a less lit place and refuse artificial lighting. The former shade of the leaves after this procedure will be restored in about 1-2 weeks. After that, the plant is again placed in the old place and additional shading measures are applied to it.

Temperature

The life cycle of a plant has a mildly pronounced seasonality.- the dormant period of the coleus falls on winter time, but does not have a clear time frame. Usually, the rest period lasts 2-3.5 months. Temperatures during these periods, of course, should be different.

IN summer time optimal temperature for coleus is the range from +20°С to +28°С

In winter, a slight decrease in temperature is permissible: from + 14 ° С to + 18 ° С.

Temperatures above + 30 ° C are undesirable for the plant, since it can shed all the leaves and go into a state of hibernation, from which it will emerge only at the beginning of the next season. A variant is possible, although unlikely (about 1 to 10), that it will not work at all.

Lowering the temperature below +10°C also leads to the dropping of leaves and the transition to a state of reversible hibernation. However, if the temperature drops below + 8 ° C, then the plant is guaranteed to die.

Another unpleasant feature of the temperature conditions of the plant is the average daily temperature fluctuations. If within a few hours the temperature changes (in any direction - up or down) by more than 7 ° C, the plant will also shed its leaves and “fall asleep”.

It is believed to be especially dangerous in winter period. This is true from the point of view of biology, however, in winter there are practically no circumstances that can lead to this state of affairs. After all, heating systems in winter work around the clock. The temperatures in residential premises during the winter are maintained at approximately the same level with fluctuations of no more than 5 ° C per day.

But in summer the probability of this event is much higher. After all, it is in summer that coleus pots are placed on a balcony or in a garden, and temperature fluctuations at night can reach 10-12 ° C per day. To avoid such unpleasant phenomena, it is recommended to cover the plants at night with any protective agent available, and, of course, follow the weather forecast. In case of obvious danger, it is advisable to move the plant back into the room.

Dislikes coleus and drafts. In winter, it is necessary to take measures to protect it from cold air flows in the room. The best option would be to put it somewhere away from ventilated or poorly closed windows.

It is also desirable to put a pot with a plant for the winter on a layer of heat-insulating material, or even wrap the entire pot with thermal insulation around the perimeter. When airing the room, it is advisable to remove the pot from the window that will open.

Air humidity

Normal plant growth is possible with relative humidity air at least 70%. The plant must be sprayed with water at room temperature twice a day. It is best to do this in the morning and evening.

To ensure constant air humidity, you can install some kind of shallow container with water next to the plant. The constantly evaporating liquid will maintain the required level of humidity.

You can use a pot tray for this purpose, into which you need to pour water to a level approximately equal to half the height of the drainage (about 2-3 cm). Periodically it is necessary to add liquid, making sure that its level does not rise above the level of drainage. After watering, excess liquid is drained from the pan.

You can do even easier - install a pot with a plant in the kitchen. In this room, as a rule, there is constantly high humidity.

Soil and container

The soil for growing coleus at home can be anything. Two basic conditions must be met: it must be neutral or slightly acidic (pH 6 to 7), and contain as much nitrogen as possible. The greater the concentration of nitrogen in the soil, the brighter and more saturated the color of the foliage will be.

• sod land - 4 parts;
• leaf ground - 4 parts;
• humus or compost - 2 parts;
• peat - 1 part;
• sand or perlite - 1 part.

Coleus resists fungal infections well, so heat treatment of the substrate is not needed. It is enough to treat the substrate with 0.2% potassium permanganate solution.

The pot for the plant is selected depending on the number of stems and the size of the root system. If there are few stems (from 1 to 5), you can limit yourself to a pot with a diameter of 10-12 cm. More stems require a pot of about 15 cm in diameter. As the root system of the plant grows, with each subsequent transplant, it is desirable to increase the diameter of the pot by 2 cm.

The material from which the pot is made does not matter.; it can be both plastic and ceramics. In any case, about a third of the height of the pot should be occupied by drainage from expanded clay or broken bricks.

coleus care

Plant care is simple and includes simple watering, fertilizing and regular pruning. Once every 2-3 years, depending on the age of the plant, it is required to transplant it.

coleus home

In addition, as flowers appear in the plant, they must be removed by completely cutting off the flower stalks so that the formation of flowers and fruits does not interfere with the normal growth of leaves. Naturally, if it is necessary to obtain seeds for further propagation of the plant, this should not be done.

Watering

Given the seasonality of the plant's life cycle, in winter and summer it needs different ways glaze. Watering from mid-March to mid-October is carried out regularly as the top layer of the substrate dries. It should be plentiful, but waterlogging the soil is not recommended. At the end of watering, it is necessary to drain excess liquid from the pan.

Watering is carried out with soft water at room temperature. In order for the water to become soft and chlorine compounds completely evaporate from it, it must be defended for three days. You can use boiled water. The use of water without boiling or settling is undesirable, since the salts contained in it lead to leaching of the soil. And since coleus watering is frequent and plentiful, this can happen quite quickly.

In winter, watering is significantly reduced. In this case, it is necessary to focus on the value of the temperature in the room. At a temperature of +18-20°C, it is recommended to water once a week. If the temperature is less than + 18 ° C, then once every 10-12 days.

Also, the leaves of the plant themselves can act as an indicator of the need for watering. If they become lethargic and flabby, then the plant needs watering.

top dressing

The plant needs top dressing during the second half of spring and all summer. At this time, their frequency should be one week.

Further top dressing is carried out at the same frequency, but at the same time complex fertilizer for flowers is used with a dose half that of the recommended one.

In winter, the plant should not be fertilized at all, but, to ensure normal nutrition, you can make 1 top dressing with complex fertilizer per month with a dose equal to a quarter of the recommended one.

plant pruning

During the dormant period, most plants lose their decorative effect.. It is possible that most of the leaves will wither, wrinkle, and subsequently fall off. In order for old or dead shoots not to interfere with the growth of young shoots in the spring, it is necessary to prune them.

In addition, the image of the plant also performs decorative functions. Coleus bushes can grow quite large, sometimes making them look unattractive. Cosmetic pruning will allow you to form the crown of the plant in the form that is required for a particular design decision.

Pruning is not only off-season, but also periodic. Usually, it is done either once a month or once a week, at the same time as fertilizing. At the same time, it is necessary not only to monitor the decorativeness of the plant, but also to cut off the emerging buds in a timely manner so that the plant does not waste energy on the formation of flowers.

Plant transplant

It is carried out in the first 1-3 years every year, in subsequent years - as needed. Transplant time is the end of March. In this case, it is necessary to choose a pot of a larger diameter and completely change the soil mixture. To avoid injuries to the root system, it is necessary to moisten the old substrate very abundantly, almost completely washing it out with water.

Inspected during transplantation root system, and dry or too weak roots are removed, as well as parts of the root system that are damaged. Before planting in a new pot, it is necessary to treat the roots with a 0.1% solution of potassium permanganate.

When transplanting, the root system of the plant should not be placed directly on the drain. It is necessary to pour a layer of soil 2-3 cm high on top of the drainage. It is also not worth excessively deepening the plant into the soil. The level of immersion in the ground should be the same as in the previous pot. In addition, the soil level should not reach 1-1.5 cm to the maximum height of the pot.

Coleus reproduction

Some varieties, despite the fact that in our climate grow in open ground, as annuals, are able to reproduce in gardens by self-seeding.

At home, both vegetative (mainly by cuttings) and generative (seed) methods of coleus propagation are used. Let's consider them in more detail:

Reproduction by cuttings

The optimal time for grafting a plant is April. With spring prophylactic or decorative pruning of the coleus, there are always many fragments of leaves or stems that are perfect for cuttings. Usually, either the top of a too long stem with a growth cone, or the central part of the stem, containing 2-4 fairly large leaves, is used as a cutting. The optimal cutting length is 8-12 cm.

It is necessary to remove leaves and lateral processes from the cutting, so that the length of the stem from below is at least 6 cm. After that, it must be stuck into the ground (the same as that of the mother plant) or a mixture of peat and sand in a ratio of 1 to 1.

Rooting coleus cuttings

After that, the stalk must be watered abundantly and create greenhouse conditions for it.. To do this, it is covered with a plastic bag or bottle and taken to a dark room with a temperature of about + 18-20 ° C.

After about 1-1.5 weeks, the cuttings have roots and are ready to be transplanted into their first pot.. Planting rules are similar to those for transplanting a plant.

seed propagation

The procedure for seed propagation of coleus, both when grown at home and when planted in open ground, is absolutely the same. The only thing to remember is that it is best to plant seeds during the active phase of the plant's life. You can, of course, get seedlings in the winter, but it is better to wait until spring in order to bring the cultivation of the plant as close as possible to its natural appearance.

Plant seeds can be purchased at any flower shop, or you can grow them yourself by letting the plant fade. Seed germination persists for several years.

First seedlings

Seeds are planted in a neutral or slightly acidic substrate of any composition.. It can be used as a substrate for adult plants, and any peat-containing mixture for seedlings. The depth and density of planting seeds do not play a special role.

Flowering coleus in the open field

As the seeds germinate and they have the first two leaves, they dive, after which they begin to water abundantly and fertilize with nitrogenous fertilizers for seedlings. When the time comes for the second pick (with 5-6 leaves), the seedlings are transplanted into a pot for an adult plant. It continues to be fertilized with nitrogenous fertilizers until flowering begins. As soon as the first flowers appear, they are cut off, nitrogen fertilizers are stopped, and the plant is taken care of as usual.

Coleus variety Blume with elongated leaves

Usually the plant itself, obtained by seed propagation, is not grown for more than a year. Most often, at the beginning of the next season, it is completely “taken apart” into cuttings. And it is from these cuttings that decorative crops are obtained.

Varieties

A plant with such an attractive appearance could not fail to attract the attention of breeders and breeders. According to the "old" classification, there were about one and a half hundred species of coleus.

Large selection of plant species

The current state of the issue allows us to talk about about three and a half hundred species and about two hundred varieties.

Consider the most popular coleus varieties used in home floriculture:

Coleus Blume

Blume (Coleus Blumei)

Blume

The most popular and widespread type of coleus. Actually, in the vast majority of cases, when they say "coleus" they mean this particular species.

It is a semi-shrub plant, 80-90 cm high with straight strong stems. Distinctive feature stems - rigid ribs located almost at right angles. Tetrahedral strong stems are a support for a dense crown of leaves of a wide variety of shades.

The leaves of the plant are egg-shaped, they are slightly pointed at the ends. The coloring is the most diverse, depending on the variety. Besides, various conditions content can change it. For example, by changing the illumination, it is possible to achieve not only a different color contrast, but also a change in the position of the pattern on the leaves.

Heat-loving and light-loving plant. Variegated species tolerate even long exposure to direct sunlight. Frequent watering is necessary, however, drainage must be very good. In the summer, it is advisable to take the plant to the balcony or garden. Sometimes it is even recommended to plant it from May to August in open ground, after transplanting it back into a pot or flowerpot. This practice makes sense when combined with plant transplantation.

Propagated mainly by cuttings, seed propagation at home, although possible, in the vast majority gives unpredictable results. As a result of seed propagation, a plant may be obtained that does not at all correspond to the varietal description. In principle, it is this method that is used for breeding, however, very few plants with a good exterior with this method of reproduction are obtained - about 1 out of 20 cases.

Therefore, if there is a desire to preserve varietal characteristics, for example, growth, degree of branching or coloring, it is necessary to use cuttings. Like most coleus, this species is best propagated by cuttings in March or April.

The plant is used in medicine, in addition, it is believed that its juice has a hallucinogenic effect. Experiments conducted about 30 years ago confirmed that about half of the people who tasted the juice from this type of coleus experienced a change in mental state.

coleus fragrant

Fragrant

It is grown mainly for medicinal purposes, or as a spice, however, it can also be used in home flower beds. In the wild, it grows up to 150-170 cm. At home, the figures are about half as low - no more than 80 cm.

The leaves of the fragrant coleus are about 7 cm long and 2 to 5 cm wide, their shape is most often triangular. The flowers are small, about 4 mm in size. Budding time is the end of April. Flowering time is in May.

It has a strong aroma and a noticeable density of pubescence. He likes frequent watering, but he has a negative attitude towards spraying foliage. A little more cold-resistant than the classic coleus - it can withstand temperature drops up to +2°C.

Coleus hybrid

Hybrid (Coleus x hybrida)

Hybrid

One of the popular varieties derived from the coleus blume. It has green, burgundy or purple leaves. Plant height can reach up to 1 meter.

The main feature of the plant is the change of color depending on the lighting conditions.. In the shade, the leaves are mostly green, after moving it to a sunny area, the color changes to burgundy or purple within 1-2 weeks. Sometimes there is a partial change in color, and very interesting color solutions are obtained.

Coleus Renelta

Renelta (Coleus rehneltianus)

Renelta

It is considered one of the classic coleus, bred a very long time ago.. The homeland of the plant is southern India or Sri Lanka. Traditionally grown as an ampelous plant, it has not too strong, but flexible and well creeping shoots. The length of the shoots reaches half a meter.

The leaves and their petioles are long, with different colors. But the veins are always crimson or purple-red, and along the perimeter of the leaf its color is green. By autumn, the color of the plant may change, and sometimes several times.

Variety Wizard

Wizard Rose

Wizard

Decorative colorful plant. Height does not exceed 25 cm. Because of what it is used in flower beds and other compositions, as a plant of the lower tier or integumentary. Has a high growth rate.

In one season, even grown from seeds fills almost the entire container, so in the first 3-4 years it needs a constant transplant. Sometimes it sits in narrow and long pots, and the whole structure can be used as an impromptu border.

How to grow coleus

Coleus: description, types and varieties, growing from seeds, planting and care at home and in the open field (80+ Photos & Videos) + Reviews

People who grow flowers at home are aware of the decorative coleus. It is easily grown not only in room conditions but also in offices. This flower was called the "poor man's croton", as it has some external resemblance to croton, but is more bright.

Description

Coleus is a type of plant that belongs to the genus of multicolor evergreen representatives of the flora, as well as labials. In the people it is called "nettle". The homeland of an attractive flower is considered to be Asia and Africa. The height of this decorative deciduous shrub often reaches 35 centimeters.

Coleus has a quadrangular translucent succulent stem. The foliage of the plant is characterized by velvety, it can be painted in various colors and has serrate margins. In many species of coleus, the leaves are very similar to nettles. It is the leaves that are considered the main decoration of the shrub, they can be a combination of red, yellow, green, brown colors of stripes and spots. This flower looks very attractive and colorful.

The flowering of the semi-shrub occurs by throwing up the panicle, while its flowers are unremarkable. On open ground, large-leaved varieties are most often grown, which are characterized by rapid growth and turn into fluffy subshrubs. Potted indoor species are able to decorate and complement any room.

Species and varieties

The flower grower, who decided to acquire a coleus, will have to make a choice from a large number of varietal and species diversity of this plant. Each of the representatives is characterized by a unique color and shape of the leaves. The color of the leaf can be from pink to black, while their edges are serrated, fringed or curly. We list the most popular varieties of coleus.

• Hybrid. The plant can reach a height of 30 to 80 cm. The foliage of the shrub can be either monophonic or multi-colored.

• Blume. A characteristic feature of the flowers of this species is the ovoid shape of the leaves and the sharpness of their edges. The leaves are very similar to nettles, their color is variegated and contains several shades. Often the core of the leaf is crimson, and the margin is green, it can also be wavy. An interesting option Coleus Blume can be called the variety "Evening Dawn", "Kong Scarlet".

• Wizard- it's decorative indoor flower, the cultivation of which is not difficult even for an inexperienced grower. Nettle height reaches 0.3 meters. The foliage of the representative is miniature and has a rounded shape. The colors can be very diverse, while the bright green edging gives the shrub a decorative effect.

• "Black dragon" stands out among other representatives of the coleus with its dark foliage. The color of the leaves can be from burgundy to brown-purple. This miniature semi-shrub has a fairly dense crown.

• "Fireway Rose" is a perennial that can be grown as annual flower. The plant is characterized by compactness, its height does not exceed 0.35 meters, and its diameter is 0.3 meters. The foliage of the semi-shrub is equipped with a raspberry core, burgundy stains and a green edging.

This houseplant prefers a sunny or slightly shaded location, as well as a rich, light soil.

Landing

If you plan to plant a coleus in the open field, then the place should be selected carefully. This plant prefers well-lit areas, due to which the subshrub is covered with variegated and healthy foliage. When choosing a place to plant a nettle, it is worth attaching importance to some nuances.

• White and red nettles can be planted in direct sunlight.
• The variety, which is characterized by green foliage, does not like the brightness of the light so much, therefore, during the active phase of the sun, the grower will have to shade the plant. The best option would be to plant a representative of the flora in a shaded place, otherwise it may suffer from burns.

Second important point when planting coleus, the correct selection of soil is considered. This type plants can be planted on any soil, but nitrogen and nutrients must be present in it.

The right substrate contributes to normal growth, the beauty of the foliage and the severity of the pattern on it. The best soil composition for coleus is as follows:

• chernozem - 4 servings;
• pine needles - 2 servings;
• cow dung - 2 servings;
• sand - 1 portion.

For proper cooking soil, it must be heated and sifted. Coleus can be planted with seeds or as seedlings. When using seeds, the grower will have to wait longer for germination. By planting seedlings, you can quickly get a beautiful decorative shrub. Sowing seeds is carried out in the second half of March, after the passage of 7 days shoots begin to appear.

From the moment the sprouts appear, you can remove the coating, and the container should be sent to a well-lit area, the best option for this there will be a window in the east or west. The temperature should be maintained at +17.19 degrees Celsius, while it is worth protecting nettles from the direct influence of the sun's rays. Planting coleus with seeds is effective method, which will allow the grower to become the owner of a chic ornamental plant.

Seedlings should be planted in open ground after it has been thoroughly warmed up. If young coleus were grown on the windowsill, they are transplanted into open ground without effort. When buying seedlings, it is worth considering the color of the foliage and stem, as well as the elasticity of the stem. Landing in open ground should be carried out in the first half of June in warm soil.

The flower grower will have to make holes of the required size, and then fill them with a nutrient substrate. Seedlings should be planted respecting the distance between plants.

Care rules

In order to grow coleus at home in an apartment or in a garden in a country house, it is worth taking care of it properly. A flower in a flower bed and in a pot needs moderate irrigation, fertilizer and pruning at home, in some situations it should be kept in the shade.

In the warm season when growing nettles moderate watering is required. For this procedure, it is necessary to use water that has settled. During hot weather, the shrub will need additional spraying, which will not allow the top soil layer to dry out. In winter, the amount of watering is reduced, but it is not worth overdrying the earth. With a lack of moisture, wilting of the plant is observed, as well as a loss of its elasticity.

Perennials and annuals need proper feeding.

1. The first fertilizer occurs 2 weeks after the dive of the seedlings. Top dressing of young seedlings should be less saturated than indicated on the package, the ideal option would be to reduce the concentration by 3-4 times.
2. In the phase of active growth of nettles, it is necessary to fertilize it every 7 days. For this purpose, it is worth purchasing a complex fertilizer that is intended for this decorative representative. A good option is potash fertilizer.
3. In the winter season, coleus should be fed once a month., while it is worth diluting the dose of the substance by 2 times.

The flower grower should know that do not allow spontaneous growth of shoots. The first pinching is carried out at a time when the plant grows to 10-12 centimeters. After that, it is worth shortening the shoots from the sides, and forming a semi-shrub at your discretion. Branches that are cut can be used to propagate coleus. If the nettle blooms at the wrong time, then it throws out an arrow that does not have decorative features. It is better to cut the flower arrow, so the plant will save its strength.

In spring and summer, the coleus, which grows indoors, requires similar care measures as for a garden representative. The flower grower should not forget about the regularity of watering, as well as the application of fertilizers with a high nitrogen content, the formation of room nettles. Humidification should be carried out with settled water at room temperature, sometimes using a spray bottle. The flower should be taken out to the balcony, as it has a positive attitude to fresh air.

In the cold season, a coleus growing in a pot should be fertilized once a month and watered many times less than in a warm one.

Reproduction methods

Each owner of a decorative coleus should know about the methods of its reproduction. There are two of them: cuttings and seeds. The semi-shrub is propagated by cuttings quite simply; for this procedure, even the shoot that remains after pruning can be used. Planting material must have a height of at least 10 centimeters. From the bottom of the cutting, it is worth removing the foliage and deepening the coleus into moist soil.

To create a greenhouse effect, young flowers should be covered with plastic wrap or with plastic cup. For successful rooting, the pot must be in shade at a temperature of 20 degrees Celsius.

After 14 days, rooted coleus can be planted in a permanent place of growth. Some flower growers place plant cuttings in cups of water, which contains a drug that stimulates the formation of the root system. Containers with cuttings are sent to the windowsill and waiting for the roots to appear. After the formation of the root system, young nettles are planted in the soil.

For sowing coleus seeds, it is worth preparing containers with a shallow depth. A fertile light substrate and seeds are poured into the container. The location of the latter should be carried out on the surface of the soil, after which the seeds must be sprinkled with sand a little without covering. The last stage of sowing will be moistening the nettles with a spray bottle and covering the container with a transparent cloth. Germination of seeds is carried out on a warm and bright windowsill.

Temperature that promotes rapid and high-quality germination planting material, ranges from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. The condition of the germinating coleus is positively affected by ventilation and the removal of liquid drops from the coating material. The first shoots appear 2 weeks after sowing. At this time, it is worth removing the coating from the container.

In order for rapid further cultivation to take place, boxes with vegetation should be placed on the western or eastern window sill.

Features of flowering

Coleus flowering cannot be called a decorative process, so at this time, many flower growers do not pay much attention to the shrub. In this phase, blue-violet flowers appear at the nettle, which are collected in complex inflorescences. At this time, the flower spends a large number of vitality, so the best option after the formation of an inflorescence is to remove it. In some varieties, the flowers exude a pleasant aroma, but the semi-shrubs look inconspicuous at this time.

Diseases and pests

The decorative appearance of the coleus is affected by the correctness and regularity of the measures taken to care for it. The oppressed appearance of the plant is a consequence of various circumstances.

1. High ground weight. Poor drainage causes water stagnation near the roots of the shrub. This situation causes the roots to rot, and the flower, in turn, becomes weak and loses leaves.
2. Excessive watering. Despite the fact that the coleus has a positive attitude towards abundant watering, it does not tolerate waterlogging. The soil should be kept moist, avoiding waterlogging.
3. Insufficient amount of water. Irregularity of watering and their insufficiency can cause the soil clod to dry out, which causes the loss of leaves and the death of the coleus.
4. Lack of light. Since nettle is a photophilous plant, improper lighting will lead to a loss of decorative qualities. Poor lighting leads to elongation of the shoots and the absence of a bright color of the leaves.
5. Direct sunlight. On a hot sunny day, burns on the leaves may occur. As a consequence of this situation, drying and shedding of the leaves occurs.

Coleus (poor man's croton) is a genus of semi-shrub perennial and annual plants, from the family of labiaceae. Their homeland is the tropical strip of Africa and Asia. However, despite this, the coleus is unpretentious. Due to the abundance of its species, it becomes possible cultivation coleus in the room and in the garden.

Common species and popular varieties

There are about 150 types of coleus in the world and much more color combinations inherent in them. Most often, coleus has the appearance of a small shrub with opposite, densely spaced large leaves, similar to nettles. Some species have edible tubers, others bloom beautifully, and still others belong to the category of decorative leafy plants. The stem of the poor man's croton is erect, slightly stiff and ribbed.

Coleus is distributed primarily as a houseplant. However, it can be planted in open ground for the summer, which is actively used by landscape designers.

Of the whole variety of coleus in horticulture, two species were taken as a basis, brought to Europe back in the 19th century. These are the Blume Coleus and the Verschaffelt Coleus. A huge number of hybrid species and varieties of the poor man's croton were bred from them. They are used in breeding today.

K. Blume (or Bluma) is a perennial herbaceous plant with an erect tetrahedral stem. Its leaves are oblong, pubescent, ovoid in shape. Painted in different shades of green, burgundy and pink.

Widespread varieties of this species:

• Butterfly;

• Volcano;

• Sabre;

• Golden Bedder;

• The chief.

K. Verschaffelt is quite similar to the species described above, but stands out with larger and brighter leaves with a velvety surface.

K. Hybrid introduced big amount varieties (Fantasy, Wizard, Weasley). They have a number of features in common:

• Upright stems, square in cross section;
• opposite leaves;
• Irregular leaf edges: jagged, wavy, dissected, curly and velvety.

Advice! If you want to grow a luxurious coleus at home, pay attention to the types of Laciniatus and Nanus. They grow about 30 cm tall and have beautiful leaves.

Ampelous (hanging from pots) varieties of coleus are very interesting. They are usually grown in hanging baskets and pots, as well as in boxes on balconies and terraces. For example, K. dwarf does not even reach 30 cm in height, but has hanging branches with elongated leaves of different shades of red.

Coleus Renelta has red leaves with a green edging with small teeth on the edges. He comes from Sri Lanka, but thanks to a number of crosses, he also took root with us.

Landing

As already mentioned, coleus is grown both in open ground and in pots and greenhouses. They plant it, of course, in different ways. Let's look at each type of landing separately.

And a bit more important rules plant growing:

• The container in which you plan to plant the coleus must have a depth of at least 15 cm, otherwise the root system of the flower will have nowhere to be located;

• Drainage must be placed at the bottom of the pot;
• The soil should be chosen non-acidic, fertile and permeable;

A lovely coleus is a nettle, but not one that stings, but one that performs a decorative function. This culture is considered both room and garden, so enjoy the colorful and colorful appearance plants can be both indoors and outdoors.

Growing a coleus with your own hands is not difficult, and there will be no problems at all if you know how to properly care for it. More on this later.

A little about coleus

Nettle came to us from the island of Java Coleus. The name from the Greek "kleos" - case, scissors, possibly due to the structure of the flower. It has about 150 species, the leaves are somewhat similar to nettles, therefore it is popularly called "nettle".

It has a variety of colors - light lemon, velvety black-violet, burgundy and many others up to four color combinations, while it pleases with extremely beautiful patterns that are not similar to any other plants.

The leaves of some species can reach 15 cm in length, so these coleus cannot but amaze with their beauty. At the same time, some varieties are quite hardy, others are injured from the slightest draft.

Popular varieties

As mentioned above, coleus has about 150 varieties, the most popular are the following:

1. By colored leaves and a variety of patterns on them:

• coleus bloom hybrids;
• dwarf coleus hybrids, the height of which does not exceed 30 cm;
• Coleus Verschaffelt hybrids - has large and very colorful leaves.

1. Leaf shape:

• split - Inky Fingers, Wisley Tapestry;
• wrinkled - Pineapple Beauty;
• the most popular among standard varieties is Paisley Shawl with large leaves, a wide white border and pink-raspberry strokes;
• Wisley Flame has elongated, cut and wrinkled leaves.

1. In terms of growth:

• upright;
• ampelous - hanging down. The most popular variety is Wisley Tapestry, which has small cut leaves that acquire a red-yellow color in the sun. An interesting hanging variety is Royal Scot, which pleases with a bright color of leaves throughout the year.

Nettle cultivation

Nettle can be grown in the following ways:

• rooting cuttings;
• sowing seeds.

The first method is simple, but still the majority prefers growing with seeds.

Rules for growing from seeds

The most favorable period for sowing seeds is March. The optimal container for planting is a wooden box, the depth of which should be approximately 10 cm.

After choosing a container, it is important to prepare the soil for planting, its composition should be as follows:

• three parts of leafy land;
• one part of sod land;
• one part sand.

Important!
Carefully consider the choice of seeds, they must be fresh.
A low price indicates poor quality, so it is better not to buy such seeds.
Before sowing, carry out disinfection, thereby facilitating further cultivation, the instructions on the label will help you with sowing.

The seeds are prepared as follows - soak them for a quarter of an hour in potassium permanganate diluted with water. After that, the seedlings must be thoroughly dried, if they crumble, it means that they have already dried up. Now the material is ready for planting.

The soil is placed in a container and slightly moistened. Seeds are evenly spread over the surface of the soil, then slightly pressed. After that, you can sprinkle with a 4-5 mm layer of soil.

When the seeds are planted, they must be covered with a film or placed under glass to create a greenhouse effect. For the container, you need to find a warm place where it will be observed temperature regime at 22-25 degrees. It is important to open the soil daily for airing and moisten it as it dries.

If everything is observed, then in a week you will notice the first shoots.

The subtleties of seedling care

When the plant just sprouts, it must be carefully looked after, long-term lighting plays an especially important role in the first days. It is better if you transfer the containers with seedlings to a bright windowsill, where there will be diffused light.

It is imperative to carry out a picking of sprouts, they do it for the normal future development of the plant. As soon as you notice that the first full-fledged leaves have appeared on the sprouts, immediately dive them into separate containers, they are suitable for this.

Growing coleus in the garden is a pleasure, and the result will please for a long time

Coleus seedlings are very fond of bright diffused light, which is vital for them. Be sure to keep the temperature at 21-23 degrees. If these conditions are not met, then the sprouts will begin to stretch, from which they only weaken.

Important!
Start feeding seedlings a couple of weeks after the dive.
It is better to choose complex fertilizers.
The amount should be 3-4 times less than indicated in the instructions.
Be sure to moisten the soil before applying.

When the seedlings get stronger, it can be transferred to a well-lit balcony, but only on condition that it is warm there, best time June - when there will be no more frosts. For permanent residence - in the garden, relocation is best done in mid-late June. Here it is important to choose a well-lit place, protected from wind and drafts.

plant care

Grooming is an important part of coleus cultivation. There are no difficulties. First of all, it is important to remember that the plant loves heat and bright light very much, which means that it needs to provide precisely these conditions for growth. If everything is in order, then as a result you will get ideal bushes - lush, colorful with bright, regular-shaped leaves.

However, do not forget that coleus does not like direct sunlight at all, which are even harmful to the plant. If the weather is very dry, try to water the nettles abundantly and, if possible, create shade.

In the summer, especially on dry days, moisture from the soil actively evaporates, so be sure to replenish the water balance of the soil. best method- spraying with water at room temperature, but there is a nuance here - if the weather is sunny, create a shadow before spraying, because droplets in the sun play the role of a lens, which can even lead to burning the leaves by the sun's rays.

Pruning the coleus is a very important procedure.

Feed coleus regularly - as this plant is a fast growing fertilizer, it needs to be applied at least once a week. In the cool season, it is necessary to reduce watering, since the root system may begin to rot in this way, and it is better to completely eliminate spraying.

Note!
If the coleus blooms often enough, then the plant grows in unsuitable conditions for it.

Results

Everyone can grow this pretty plant. Simple rules in care - watering, a place protected from drafts, light, heat and pruning will help you achieve excellent results. Coleus will transform your garden, bringing a variety of colors to it. The video in this article will complement the information on coleus care.

born in tropical forests Coleus, the photo of which is presented below, fell in love with the European flower growers with rich color of leaves. The decorativeness of the plant and unpretentiousness to the conditions of detention made it a welcome decoration in landscape design and in the interior of an apartment.

The rich color of the foliage combines green and various shades of red, sometimes with the addition of white blotches. Shrub height from 30 to 80 cm. Succulent stalk of coleus in cross section has a rectangular shape.

Toothed leaves are placed in pairs at each node, opposite each other. They look like nettle leaves so coleus is called "nettle". Blue flowers have a pleasant aroma and are collected in a spike-shaped inflorescence.

Growing coleus in open ground

Landscape designers were the first to appreciate the unpretentiousness of the beautiful shrub and began to use it in the floral design of the city. Breeders cultivated colorful varieties, and the seeds of new species appeared in specialized stores. Now even a novice gardener can decorate country cottage area this bright flower.

Coleus in landscape design photo:

Reproduction methods

seeds

To ensure the most comfortable conditions, a heat-loving flower must be grown using the method seedlings. Seeds are sown in containers with fertile soil, sprinkled with sand and rammed the top layer. The air temperature in the room should be +22 °C. Seedlings require regular soil moisture, and heavy watering should be avoided.

The seeds will germinate in two weeks. When should coleus dive into separate containers? After the appearance of the fourth leaf. For increase tillering, it is recommended to remove the upper part of the stem. Coleus picking can also be done in one box, but then the distance between the sprouts should be 15–20 cm.

cuttings

Cuttings are the easiest way to propagate plants. For outdoor cultivation early autumn cuttings are prepared. The length of the stem should be 10-15 cm.

For the formation of the root system, the lower part of the stem is first placed in a vessel with water. After ten days, the root processes will become strong, and they are placed in a separate pot with nutrient soil. Vegetative coleus is planted in June in a flower bed.

This video tells how to properly care for Coleus, how to fertilize, transplant and propagate.

Landing features

Coleus grows well in lit areas, but for some species, prolonged exposure to bright sunlight can be detrimental. on foliage. It is better to choose places for landing with scattered shadow. This will help preserve the beauty of the plant and avoid foliage burns.

Landing in open ground is carried out in the first decade of June and adhere to the following rules:

• if the soil is dense, then it is lightened with sand;
• the distance between plants should be 20–30 cm;
• for guard root system from fungal diseases it is necessary to pour a fungicide solution into the well;
• seedlings are planted by transshipment with the preservation of an earthen coma;
• after watering, the planting should be mulched;
• in the early days it is necessary to protect the plants from direct sunlight.

Important! Coleus beds should not be placed in low places. After the rains, water accumulates there for a long time, and this adversely affects the plants.

Care of seedlings and mature plants

Coleus is one of the most unpretentious tropical flowers, but some simple rules care will help to reveal it in all its glory:

1. Maintain soil moisture.
2. Weeding and removing weeds.
3. Regular loosening of the earth until the plants close together.
4. Pinching the top for lush bushiness.
5. Fertilizing.

Coleus need watering with settled water which heats up during the day in the sun. If the air temperature drops to +15 ° C, then water the plants less often, while preventing the soil from drying out.

Fertilizer

Nutrient soil should contain a high amount of nitrogen fertilizers. This will provide a bright and rich color to the leaves. First feeding carry out complex mineral fertilizer, for 10 liters of water take 25 grams of the mixture. In the second dressing, ash is used. To prepare the infusion, one glass of ash is added to a bucket of water, filtered and applied under the plant.

Remember! Watering the flower with a solution should be done carefully. Care must be taken to ensure that fertilizers do not fall on the leaves. .

pruning

When caring for coleus in the open field, you need to cut and pinch the stems. These procedures will provide bushy plant formation. It won't stretch up and will not lose the decorative foliage. During the season, side shoots can be cut if they destroy the correct lines of the bush or strongly compact it.

Popular varieties and types of coleus photo

The motley color of the flower prompted breeders to develop new varieties. Plants appeared with complex ornaments and attractive leaf color combinations. Description presented below:

Cantigny Royale

It has tiny leaves of an intense purple hue.

Tilt a Whirl

The twisted leaves of a round shape, with a fringe in the form of needles, look fantastic.

lemon chiffon

The peculiarity of the variety is the combination of pale greens with bright shade fuchsia in the middle of the leaf.

bonnie gold

It has yellowish foliage, which is framed by dark red braid.

Coleus Watermelon

Wavy leaves in color resemble a juicy watermelon. It is characterized by lush bushiness.

Coleus Solar flare

The green shade of the foliage "burns" with bright spots of purple framed by a yellowish mesh.

Coleus Stormy weather

Justifies its name with a riot of dazzling yellow, purple and bright green colors.

Coleus Fishnet stockings

This variety has voluminous leaves in the form of an oval with dark purple streaks.

Coleus Pele

Feature of the variety - light green leaves interspersed with burgundy. The edges are ruffled.

Coleus Henna

Green leaves with a golden coating on the reverse side are painted in wine color.

Coleus Gilda

The thin leaves have a purple center edged with pink with a yellow border around the edges.

Coleus Faust

Mainly used as a houseplant. Velvet leaves have a rich purple color.

The most widespread was the coleus of Blume. This species combined tall shrubs with large leaves. The plant reaches a height of 80 cm. The stem is ribbed. The leaves are shaped like an egg, with a pointed tip. Coleus Blume is preferably propagated by cuttings.

The miniature size of the shrub allows it to be used in the design of borders, grown in flowerpots and hanging planters. Height does not exceed 35 cm.

The variety is resistant to temporary drying of the soil. and is not subject to burns from prolonged exposure to the sun. In low light, it may lose red hues.

The variety is distinguished by lush bushiness. Plant height 25–30 cm. The leaf has arched contours and a convex shape. Intense dark red coloration (sometimes black) makes this variety the most decorative among coleus. Numerous signs and superstitions are associated with its gloominess.

Prefers diffused light, well-drained soil and regular top dressing.

Renelta

Ampel version of the plant with long, curly stems, reaching 50 cm in length. Grown mainly in hanging pots.

Frosted red leaves with pale green edging are heart-shaped and wavy the edges. The plant is characterized by pronounced purple veins on the leaves.

Home Care

lovers indoor plants appreciated the brightness of the motley coleus. Easy to take care of not only for experienced florists, but also for beginner flower growers. The colorfulness of the foliage provides year-round decoration of the apartment.

Landing

A pot for planting a plant needs a spacious one, with a depth of at least 15 cm. There should be holes on the bottom to drain excess water. The first layer must be made drainage. Suitable for complete nutrition loose fertile soil with a neutral level of acidity. Half of the nutrient mixture is compost, a quarter is peat, and sifted coarse sand is added to the full volume.

Lighting and air temperature

The location of the coleus should be well lit. If this condition is not met, then the plant will start to grow. To form a beautiful bushiness, it is recommended to periodically turn the flower towards the light in different directions.

Advice! For species with a uniform color of leaves, sunlight is needed much less than for plants with an ornament.

The stability of the air temperature in the room is essential. In the range from +20 to +24 degrees, the plants will be bright, lush and healthy.

Watering and humidity

The tropical origin of the coleus explains its love for regular watering with settled water and moistening the foliage by spraying, especially in hot weather. summer period. The soil in pots should always be moist. Permissible in winter drying only the top layer of soil. In the coleus room It is desirable to maintain the level of air humidity not lower than 45%.

top dressing

Coleus growing at home need top dressing with mineral fertilizer complexes. In summer, plants are fed every week, and in winter time, reduce the application of top dressing to two times a month, and reduce the concentration of the solution by 50%.

pruning

Coleus care includes regular removal of excess stems and leaves. Pruning is necessary for a number of advantages:

• limits unwanted stretching of the stem in height;
• helps shape bush of necessary splendor;
• restores the decorativeness of the plant after winter;
• used for cuttings to obtain planting material.

Pruning is done carefully, trying not to hurt the rest of the stems. Tools desirable disinfect so as not to infect the plant viral or fungal diseases. At the end of pruning, the soil is abundantly watered with warm water and top dressing is applied.

Transfer

In room conditions, coleus does not require regular transplants. If it becomes necessary to replace the pot, then the plant is transplanted by transshipment. The bush is taken out, slightly shaken off the ground from the root system and planted in a new pot. The free space is filled with fresh nutrient soil.

The main problems in growing

Coleus are harmed by insects that feed on their plant sap. To protect indoor flowers from pests, it is necessary as often as possible inspect them, and wash the leaves under a warm shower.

With improper care of the coleus, the following problems arise:

• due to lack of drainage, the part of the stem adjacent to the ground rots;
• the brown color of the leaves indicates insufficient soil moisture;
• leaf shedding occurs at low air temperatures;
• burns on leaves the result of prolonged exposure to direct sunlight;
• lack of fertilizers in the soil slows down the growth of the plant;
• in low light, the foliage loses color intensity.