How Often Should a Coleus Be Watered?

Watering

• Coleus are easy care plants and require little in special care. They will not tolerate wet feet, however, and must be planted in a well-draining location. They should be kept moist during the first week after planting. After that, water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Coleus in pots should be checked daily and watered when the soil begins to dry.

Light Requirements

• Coleus are often touted as a plant best grown in the shade. While older varieties may be suited to these conditions, many newer varieties prefer dappled shade or even full sun. Old varieties were notorious for washing out with too much sun exposure, but newer varieties bring the same intense colors out into the light.

Pests and Problems

• Coleus are very resistant to pests and disease. They are occasionally bothered by mealy bug, aphids and whiteflies. They suffer more as a result of over- or under-watering, however. Too much standing water leads to root and stem rot. Cold, wet soils can initiate leaf drop.

Common Cultivars

• Many coleus cultivars exist for a variety of growing conditions. Full-sun cultivars include the Solar series, Alabama Sunset, Pineapple and Saturn. Partial-shade cultivars include Black Magic, Duckfoot, Japanese Giant, Red Ruffles and Sunset. Old-fashioned favorites that thrive in shade include the Wizard series, Black Dragon, Carefree and Rainbow.