Information About Sun Coleus Plants

Cultivars

• Clemson University Cooperative Extension lists the Alabama Sunset, Burgundy Sun, Pat Martin, Pineapple and Plum Parfait as sun-tolerant coleus varieties. Read the plant label on the coleus seed packet or container closely when purchasing to verify it is a sun-tolerant variety.

Care

• Sun-tolerant coleus plants will produce a fuller plant if you pinch 1/2 to 1 inch off the top of each seedling. Place a 1- to 2-inch layer of mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture during the hot summer months. The sun-tolerant coleus requires supplemental water during the hot summer months when the rainfall is less than 1 inch. Attempt to keep the soil evenly moist for best results.

Problems

• The sun-tolerant coleus varieties are resistant to most disease and pest problems when planted in an outdoor environment. It is best to monitor the plants during the growing season to prevent an infestation of mealy bugs or aphids. Plants growing in excessively wet soil may rot at the stem or root level.