Detailed Guide to Fertilizing Coleus: Methods and Precautions

Although coleus does not have a high demand for fertilizer during its growth process, it cannot go completely without fertilizing when cultivated, otherwise it will show fewer leaves, yellowing, and even withering due to a lack of nutrients. So how should coleus be fertilized properly? Let's find out together.

1. Fertilizer Selection

When fertilizing coleus, we first need to understand what kind of fertilizer it needs. First is base fertilizer, which can make the soil more fertile. Second, it needs nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers. Nitrogen fertilizer is a component of the living cells of coleus, and plant growth cannot do without nitrogen fertilizer. Phosphorus fertilizer is one of the main nutrient elements that promotes coleus flowering, and it also participates in coleus photosynthesis, respiration, and cell division. Potassium fertilizer is related to the metabolism of coleus, so none of these three elements can be missing.

2. Fertilization Methods

Base fertilizer should be applied when potting, because it needs to be applied at the bottom of the soil, or mixed into the soil. Generally, organic fertilizer and bone meal are the main components. Note that base fertilizer is not better the more the better; the amount should be controlled at one-tenth of the soil. During the growing period, fertilize more to promote plant growth and development. Nitrogen is a necessary nutrient element for the growth and development of any plant. Generally, apply dilute nitrogen fertilizer 1-2 times a month. Phosphorus fertilizer promotes coleus flowering, so before the coleus flowering period, a phosphorus fertilizer topdressing can be applied. In addition, after pruning, a phosphorus fertilizer topdressing can also be applied, which can promote cell division and enlargement and benefit the growth and development of new branches.

3. Fertilization Precautions

Although nitrogen fertilizer can promote the growth and development of coleus, it should not be applied too much. Generally, apply it once every 15-20 days, and it must be diluted with water before application, otherwise concentrated fertilizer will cause root burning and rot, and in severe cases, plant death. If fertilizing by directly scattering fertilizer on the pot soil, then after fertilizing, water appropriately and water thoroughly once, so that both the upper and lower layers of the soil can be moistened, reducing the situation of higher concentration on the soil surface, and also allowing the fertilizer to enter the soil as soon as possible and be absorbed and utilized by the roots.

The above is an introduction to coleus fertilization methods and precautions. I hope it can help you. To learn more related knowledge, please follow us.