Coleus are wonderful plants for both full sun and shade locations. Coleus grow approximately knee-high. These plants are excellent for combination baskets, containers, or borders. Your customers will like how quickly Coleus grow and fill the landscape with color. They mix well with Verbena, Calibrachoa, and Bacopa since all of these varieties have similar cultural needs. Once they flower in the summer, you can either remove the spikes or leave them to attract pollinators.
Growing Tips
For best results with Coleus, we recommend using a well-drained soil with a well-balanced fertilizer and a constant feed program of 200 ppm N. Maintain a pH between 5.8 - 6.2. The EC should be between 1.5-2.0 mmhos (2:1 dilution). While Coleus love full sun, shadier conditions can produce more intense color in the leaves.
Flowering
Coleus produce long bloom spikes on top, but the flowers are not a selling point for this plant. Coleus are grown for their striking foliage, so pinching back the bloom spikes can maintain a more desirable appearance.
Pinching
We recommend that you first pinch Lord Voldemort 5-10 days after transplanting to your final container. Pinch regularly to encourage branching for height control and shape.
Spacing
Coleus should be spaced adequately to allow airflow and light penetration between the foliage. Usually 2’ centers on baskets will be enough.
Height Control
Apply plant growth regulators (like Bonzi) to reduce the need for pinching.
Pests
Aphids and whiteflies are the primary problem pests with Coleus.
Disease
Lord Voldemort can be susceptible to downy mildew.To prevent this fungus, lower the humidity and water plants in the morning, allowing leaves to dry out thoroughly in the afternoon. (Horizontal fans at floor level can greatly improve air circulation to facilitate drying and reduce fungus problems.) If spores form (on the bottom of the leaf), treat with Adorn.
Watch for botrytis while the days are short. This grey rot is usually associated with wet or humid conditions. You can prevent botrytis by allowing the plant to dry out between waterings, allowing for good airflow in your greenhouse, and spacing to allow the sun to penetrate to the soil level. The most common chemicals used to treat botrytis are Medallion and Banrot. Use them as a drench according to each label’s instructions.
Planting Lord Voldemort Liners
We recommend planting 4 starter plants per 10 inch basket. Use a well-drained soil in your baskets and plant your starter plants deep, allowing the ellepot to be completely covered by the soil. If you are planting 4” pots, 1 plant per pot should be sufficient. Plant it directly in the middle of your pot.
Pinch Lord Voldemort 5-10 days after transplanting to your final container. Additional pinches every couple of weeks may be required to shape your final pot.