What plants go well with penstemon?
Companion planting: penstemon plants are highly compatible with other perennials. Consider planting them with complementary species such as lavender, salvia, or ornamental grasses for contrasting textures. Penstemons grow in most soils that drain freely, flowering prolifically in fertile soils. They need full sun. In cold areas, they appreciate the protection of growing near a sunny, warm wall.Penstemon species establish and spread slowly via seed distribution. They are not considered weedy or invasive species, but can spread into adjoining vegetative communities under ideal climatic and environmental conditions. They coexist with other native species and add biodiversity to those plant communities.Plant in a sheltered position with well-drained soil, out of cold winds. Some penstemons tolerate temperatures down to -10°C (15°F) in good positions like this.
What is the best fertilizer for coleus?
Incorporate a granular general-purpose fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium into the soil at time of planting. After planting, coleus should be fertilized monthly using a fertilizer with equal ratios again to promote foliage growth and not flowering. Provide them with well-draining soil and water consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist. Coleus plants thrive in partial to full shade, making them ideal for gardens with filtered sunlight. Pinch back the tips regularly to encourage fuller growth and remove any flower spikes to maintain foliage vitality.It’s easy: you just need to pinch them. It may seem counterproductive to cut back a plant that you want more of, but pinching many annual and tender perennial plants—like coleus—encourages branching and full, bushy growth.Coleus can grow well in pots or the ground, making them a versatile addition to an outdoor space. The colorful foliage of Coleus will brighten up a patio, porch, or balcony. When grown in a container, the plant can easily be moved to a spot in need of color or an area that provides more favorable conditions.You can make coleus bushy by routinely pinching the stems and leaves from the plant. Over time, the main stem or trunk of your coleus will become strong and support a larger, fuller plant. Regular feeding with a diluted liquid fertilizer can also promote growth.They rush to recover their lost limbs after you chop them off. You should leave coleus flowers to bloom if you’d like to save seeds, invite pollinators to your garden, or simply like the look of the stems with blossoms on them. They don’t harm the plant, but they take energy to form and lead to fewer leaves over time.
Does Solenostemon need fertilizer?
Feed coleus house plants with a high nitrogen fertiliser every two weeks through the growing season. Water when the top third of the compost is dry. Place in a spot that gets bright, indirect light. Plants won’t thrive in shady locations. Coleus is very frost-sensitive, so bring the plants inside if cold nights threaten. By mid-May, the plants should be ready for your garden or containers.As long as coleus is not subjected to freezing temperatures, it will grow for several years without issue.Coleus scutellarioides is an upright annual or short-lived perennial plant which can live for about three or four years.
Where is the best place to plant coleus?
Plant coleus in a location with filtered light. Morning sun is best, with protection from afternoon heat. A plant kept in too little light won’t have the same brilliant colors. One with more sun exposure will be more vibrant. Coleus does best in partial to full shade, though many newer varieties can tolerate full sun. For optimum foliage color, choose a site that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.Some modern coleus varieties handle full sun, but most still flourish with at least dappled shade and direct sun limited to morning hours. Too much sun or intense midday rays leave foliage scorched and faded; too little light causes weak growth. A balance is important for coleus beauty and health.