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Today we will learn 6 useful tips on Coleus care. These important tips on coleus plant care are explained with many dos and don’ts. Coleus is one of the most beautiful and colorful plants—the Coleus plant. Also known as landscape coleus or Plectranthus, we’ll also learn how to easily multiply or propagate coleus from simple cuttings.

Sunlight
Coleus is essentially a shade plant that prefers indirect sunlight. However, the best leaf color is achieved with direct morning or evening sunlight or under a shade net. Many varieties do well in both shade and partial direct sunlight, as long as they are not allowed to dry out.
Watering
Coleus plants require intelligent watering. Avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot and death. Water only when the top inch of the soil is completely dry or if the plant begins to wilt. Wilting is easily reversed with watering.
Soil and Fertilizers
Coleus does not need much feeding. Small quantities of compost mixed into the soil are sufficient for growth. They thrive in any soil, but well-draining soil is preferred to avoid root rot and congestion.
Pinching
Pinching is crucial for Coleus care. Regularly pinch off the top growing ends to promote more branching and create a bushier plant. Without this, the stems elongate and may not branch out properly. Keep pinching the growing and multiplying branches to encourage more branching.
Flowers
Coleus plants produce spikes of flowers. However, if you want the plant to grow well, pinch off the flowers. This is an important tip for beginners.
Avoid Windy Locations
Avoid placing Coleus in windy locations, as their stems are tender and soft and can easily break.
Propagation of Coleus Plants from Cuttings
Coleus is one of the easiest plants to propagate from cuttings, making it ideal for beginner gardeners. These cuttings root easily in about 1 to 2 weeks. You can use cuttings obtained from pinching or borrow a few cuttings from a neighbor.
To propagate Coleus:
Use any soil, potting mix, or cocopeat to start the cuttings. Later, transfer them to a mix containing ground soil for better anchorage, as they tend to fall easily if not properly anchored.
Take small cuttings and trim the leaves towards the base, leaving the upper leaves intact.
Optionally, dip the lower end of the cutting into rooting hormone and insert it into pre-made holes in the soil. Make sure to create the holes first, as Coleus stems are soft and tender.
You should achieve nearly 100 percent success even without rooting hormone.
Watch this video on Coleus varieties and care of coleus plants.