Coleus Problems: Too Much Sun and Water

Coleus Problems: Too Much Sun and Water

A reader’s 5-week-old fall-colored coleus, repotted from its plastic container, has pale leaves that dry out; new growth is dry and crumbly. The plant gets all-day sun but no heat.

Diagnosis

• Too much sun: Most coleus need shade. Only specific sun-tolerant hybrids can handle full sun.
• Too much water / poor drainage: Soil must be well-drained with lots of perlite and sand. Never let it sit in standing water.

Fix

1. Move to a shady location.
2. Repot in a mix of potting soil + perlite + sand (1:1:1).
3. Water only when the top inch of soil is dry.
4. If any healthy stems remain, take cuttings to root in water or damp mix as backup.