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Answers to your gardening questions |
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Five-part article series on flower-drying starts here Eight-part article series on vegetable gardening starts here Asian
Lily Beetles Japanese
Beetles An
effective Deer Fence! |
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Outrageously-Colorful
Coleus |
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Welcome through Fred's Garden Gate! When we're encircled by ever-deepening mounds of white, and obliged to remain indoors because temperatures seem locked below the zero of our thermometers, isn't it grand to enjoy the company of little oases of color and cheer on our window sills! Delicate patches of pink, purple and white of African violets; poinsettias, still boldly displaying stunning bracts of pink, yellow and crimson; foliage plants all shiny and green. But coleus...now there's an eye-catcher for you! Remarkably easy and showy, this leafy beauty from the tropical parts of Africa and Asia catches the eye and attention of even the most disinterested non-gardener. Not willing to limit itself to just one color—or even a combination of two or three—coleus can deliver up a totally outlandish festival of exaggerated hues and tints in a wild and wacky spectacle sure to evict all but the worst winter blahs. Even the leaf-shapes refuse to be bound by convention! From heart to elongated to deeply-serrated and wavy, leaf shape variations add to this cheery plant's repertoire. And, yes, it even flowers - though in a rather bland and modest way - and most authorities on the subject recommend removing flower stems as soon as they emerge to encourage continued growth of more attractive foliage. Unhappily, far too many coleus plants are denied the very bright light they require for best color display. Sun-loving and deeply grateful for an occasional trim (pinching tips causes the plant to maintain a compact, bushy form), the brightest window in the house is best - except on the hottest days when the shade of a thin curtain is appreciated. Coleus, also known as "Flame Nettle," is a big-eater during its April to September rapid-growing season, needing ample food (a balanced liquid every two weeks) and water. A misting every couple of days and a weekly shower will keep it looking its best but, as with African violets, don't let wet leaves see bright sunlight - they'll end up with scorched spots. Coleus also appreciates ample air circulation. Although coleus will live for several years, after just one season they tend to look a little ratty. You could cut it back, rest it and then feed but you'll enjoy a more satisfying return by propagating a new plant each year. Take a three or four inch tip cutting during August or September, dip in rooting hormone if you'd like (it's not necessary) and stick it about half way into a mixture of half ProMix and half clean, sharp sand. Bright light, adequate moisture, increased humidity and a temperature about 70(F) will result in roots and new growth within a few weeks. Pot cuttings individually - or place three or four cuttings of different color variations in the same container for a splendid color-show. Problems Coleus leaves will wilt or turn yellow and fall if they don't get enough humidity. Allowing the container to sit in a saucer of cold water will result in the same distressing malady with the added possibility of stem-rot. Adequate humidity, plenty of light and thorough drainage are the "keys" to success when growing coleus. Those, supplemented by pinching and every-other-week feeding, and you just can't lose. Unless, of course, some expectant mealybugs spot your plant! They are sucking insects which are covered with white fluff and tend to congregate and feed on tender, new growth. Control is easy and purely decisive: a small brush dipped in methylated spirits (or common rubbing alcohol) will remove them - the alcohol literally dissolves their outer covering, leaving them quite thoroughly, quickly and (in theory) painlessly dispatched. A number of varieties - all quite inexpensive - are readily available from flower shops, nurseries and supermarkets. All will retain their original color patterns as long as they're "cloned" by cuttings and assuming they get the care described above. Seeds are also available providing an almost infinite assortment of colors and leaf-shapes. Fun!...and the younger gardeners in your family will absolutely love watching tiny seeds transformed into a color and pattern perhaps never before seen! One last tip: when you purchase one or bring a "slip" home from your neighbor's plant, look it over closely. Avoid one that looks straggly; flee from one which has any sign of insects; and reject plants or cutting material that looks weak and pale. This is one case where only the very best will do. That's the "dope" on coleus. Cheerful, colorful and easy — just the trick to help wile away what's left of winter in the frigid Northeast. Until next time, dress warm, read your gardening catalogs and enjoy your indoor winter garden! |
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