Coleus is one of the most stunning foliage plants you can grow. Unlike many garden favorites that rely on flowers for their beauty, coleus steals the show with its spectacular leaves, featuring combinations of deep burgundy, bright lime green, pink, red, purple, yellow, and even nearly black shades.
The plant shown in the image displays the classic beauty of coleus, with richly colored leaves edged in vibrant green. However, many gardeners notice that as summer approaches, their coleus begins to lose its intensity, becoming leggy, faded, or less colorful than expected.
June is a crucial month for coleus care. The actions you take now can determine whether your plants become lush, colorful masterpieces or disappointing, washed-out specimens.
Here are the 9 most important things you should do this June to keep your coleus thriving and bursting with color.
1. Give Your Coleus the Right Amount of Sunlight
One of the biggest mistakes gardeners make is exposing coleus to too much direct sun.
While some modern varieties tolerate more sunlight than older types, intense afternoon sun can still cause:
- Faded colors
- Scorched leaves
- Brown edges
- Stressed plants
Ideal Light Conditions
- Morning sun
- Bright filtered light
- Partial shade during hot afternoons
The right balance of light helps produce the richest and most vibrant leaf colors.
2. Pinch Back Growing Tips
June is the perfect time to encourage bushier growth.
Without regular pinching, coleus can become:
- Tall
- Thin
- Leggy
- Less attractive
How to Pinch Properly
Using your fingers or clean scissors:
- Remove the top inch of new growth.
- Pinch just above a leaf node.
- Repeat every few weeks.
This encourages the plant to produce multiple side shoots, creating a fuller appearance.
3. Remove Flower Spikes Early
The image shows flower spikes beginning to emerge from the plant.
While the flowers are attractive, allowing coleus to bloom extensively often reduces foliage quality.
Once flowering begins, the plant shifts energy away from leaf production.
What to Do
Cut flower spikes as soon as they appear.
Benefits include:
- Larger leaves
- Brighter colors
- Bushier growth
- Longer-lasting plants
Many experienced gardeners remove flowers throughout the growing season.
4. Feed with a Balanced Fertilizer
Coleus is a fast-growing plant and benefits from regular feeding.
However, overfertilizing can create excessive green growth and reduce color intensity.
Best Fertilizing Schedule
Apply:
- Balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–4 weeks
- Slow-release fertilizer according to package instructions
Avoid excessive nitrogen, which may dilute the vivid leaf coloration.
5. Keep the Soil Consistently Moist
Coleus dislikes extremes.
Both drought and soggy soil can stress the plant.
Signs of Underwatering
- Drooping leaves
- Crisp edges
- Reduced color
Signs of Overwatering
- Yellow leaves
- Root rot
- Wilting despite wet soil
Aim for evenly moist soil that drains well.
6. Refresh Container Soil
The plant in the image is growing in a container, where nutrients become depleted faster than in garden beds.
June is an excellent time to:
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