Can coleus be propagated by cuttings in summer?
Coleus can be propagated by cuttings in summer, and this is also its best cutting season. First, select a branch with three to five nodes and some terminal buds on the stem, about 10 cm long. Next, trim the leaves on the stem to reduce nutrient consumption; generally, all the lower leaves of the branch should be cut off. Finally, insert the branch into moist sandy soil and keep it in a cool, ventilated place.
Propagation methods for coleus by cuttings:
1. Cutting time for coleus: Coleus can be propagated by seed and by cuttings, and cutting propagation is the simplest method. It can be done all year round; apart from winter, when low temperatures slow rooting, spring and summer have suitable temperatures and are the best cutting seasons.
2. Branches for coleus cuttings: Coleus is a perennial herbaceous plant, but in homes it is mostly grown as an annual. It is very suitable for propagation by terminal bud cuttings. Select a stem section with terminal buds, 3 to 5 nodes, and a length of 5 to 10 cm as the cutting. After cutting the cutting, trim some of the leaves to avoid excessive leaf loss of water from the branch, which can cause cutting failure. Usually, all the lower leaves of the branch should be cut off, and keeping a few leaves at the top is enough.
3. Cutting method for coleus: Coleus grows quickly, so a healthy branch can be inserted directly as a single cutting into a flower pot with a diameter of 7.5 cm. After successful rooting, it can be grown directly in the pot. If there is more space at home and the environment is suitable, it can be inserted into a larger planter.
4. Rooting time for coleus: Coleus roots very quickly. About one week after cutting, roots can grow. Two weeks after cutting, apply dilute liquid fertilizer or slow-release fertilizer so that the coleus enters the initial growth stage. After the coleus grows normally, pinch it back once to promote branching and improve the ornamental value of the small potted plant.
The rooted young plants gradually grow larger. They can be planted in flower pots or grown in large pots as potted combinations. In addition, coleus grows quickly in summer, so proper pruning is needed to keep it looking attractive.