I wrote about Sun Patiens last month and received many favorable comments. This month I decided to write about a shade plant and coleus is my favorite. Then I realized there are many varieties of coleus that will tolerate sun as well so I will tell you about both.

First, there are few things you need to know about all types of coleus. They like moist, well drained soil. This doesn’t mean that you need to water constantly but it does mean you need to keep the soil moist without the plants sitting in too much water. After watering every day for the first several days after planting, you shouldn’t have to worry too much about water if you have a good layer of mulch to hold the moisture in. Feed coleus with a light application of 12-6-6 fertilizer, too much nitrogen will cause excessive greening. Pinch in mid-summer to keep the plants bushy. Cuttings taken before the first frost will root easily inside for beautiful house plants.

“Electric Lime” coleus is a Mississippi Medallion winner that grows in the sun. It has beautiful lime green foliage and grows to about 24 inches tall. If you are looking for a serrated foliage, the “Henna” coleus is for you. It is chartreuse and copper on top of the leaf and a deep burgundy underneath. It is a Louisiana Super Plant so you know it will grow well in Natchez also.

Another great choice for the sun is “Plum Parfait.” It has ruffled leaves which are a purplish-plum color. This plant was tested in Texas by Texas A&M but actually grows better in Mississippi. The Mississippi State Extension Service has paired it with “Salsa Salmon-BiColor” salvia at the Truck Crops Experiment Station in Crystal Springs with beautiful results.

For a shady area, try “Lemon Twist.” It gets its name from the lemon-lime color. Another variety with lime green hues is “Dappled Apple.” Or try “Chocolate Drop,” it ranges in color from ruby red and yellow to pink and orange blends. These bright colors look great on a shady patio in colorful containers.

Remember, it is getting warmer by the day so if you plant coleus now, or any other plant for that matter, make sure they are well watered every day for the first week or two.

Pruning — If you haven’t already pruned your azaleas and other spring blooming plants time is running short. The flower buds for next year are formed early in the summer. The Extension Service recommends pruning no later than July 4.

Email your questions or comments to me at newsroom@natchezdemocrat.com.

 

Karen O’Neal is an Adams County Master Gardener. She writes a monthly column for The Democrat.