How to care for this Coleus little plant?

[Rosana1]

Hello everyone!

I bought a beautiful Coleus pot from you guys a while ago. It lives in my living room, with enough light and proper watering routine, but recently I've noticed it is looking sick. I took many photos to show you all sides of this plant. The light green leaves seem ok, but the burgundy ones are getting dry, falling and even showing holes and whitish spots. Another weird thing is the pot where it is planted. I've noticed this white powdery layer on the border, outside the pot and on the plate underneath it.

So, my question is, what do you think is happening here?

I've been to 3 Bunnings today trying to buy a new Coleus, no shop had any. Checked on line, amazing images of the striking colours and varieties, but all sold out, so probably out of season.

So I've decide to try my best to save the one in my home. Need your help and expertise!

Uploading images so that you can have a look.

Kind regards,

Rosana1

[Jason]

Hi @Rosana1,

The Bunnings guide How to plant and grow coleus might be helpful for you.

Let me tag the wonderful @Noelle to see if she has any specific advice for reviving your plant.

Jason 

[Noelle]

Hi @Rosana1 

The white crust in the saucer and around the rim of the pot is caused by fertiliser salts that build up in the potting mix as fertiliser is released from the beads and dries as the potting mix and waste water dry between waterings. It's important not to over-water (allow the mix to dry out before watering again) and to empty the saucer about 30 minutes after watering to dispose of the drainage.

The lower leaves of the coleus will naturally die off as the plant grows. At this time of the year, you could cut the plant back a bit and put it outside in a sheltered position (out of cold winds) to have a rest over the cooler months.

The all-burgundy leaves could be removed completely, as the variegated foliage is the main attraction and that's what you should be encouraging.

[Rosana1]

Hi Noelle,

Thank you very much, Noelle!

I thought there was a problem with the pot!!😀

Will get rid of the old burgundy ones. As for cutting back, it is already a very small one, on a coffee table. And out outside is super windy and wet in winter, so will probably let it rest here.

Very appreciated help!

Rosana

Hope you guys receive lots of coleus when it's time, I'll be buying more, as I love the colours.

[Rosana1]

Thank you, Jason! I have read the guide, but there was nothing related to these specific issues.

Wonderful Noelle has already sent me some light!

Thank to you both!

Rosana