How To Grow Coleus As A Tree: Step By Step

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Coleus, with its vibrant and unique foliage, has become a favorite plant for gardeners and indoor plant enthusiasts alike. Known for its captivating color patterns and variety, coleus typically grows as a low, bushy plant. However, with the right approach and techniques, you can train coleus to grow as a small ornamental “tree,” giving your space a unique twist and making coleus a focal point in your garden or home.

Growing coleus as a tree can give your plant collection an unusual look and allow this adaptable plant to add height and dimension to your space. This article walks you through how to grow coleus as a tree, the essential steps to success, and a handy FAQ to answer any questions you might have.

Why Grow Coleus as a Tree?

Most people grow coleus as a bush, but training it as a tree opens up new design possibilities:

• Space-Saving: A tree-form coleus takes up less ground space, perfect for smaller gardens or tight indoor spaces.
• Unique Focal Point: Coleus trees bring a touch of artistry to your garden, catching the eye with their vibrant color display on an unexpected form.
• Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: The height and unique shape give a “bonsai” look with minimal effort, offering an artistic feel without extensive bonsai knowledge.
• Increased Exposure: Growing coleus as a tree allows better light penetration and airflow around the plant, helping keep the foliage healthy.

Step-By-Step Guide to Growing Coleus as a Tree

Step 1: Choose the Right Coleus Variety

Select a coleus variety with a sturdy main stem that can support itself as it grows. Some varieties grow taller and more upright, which can be advantageous for creating a tree shape. Look for cultivars that naturally have stronger central stems, and pick a healthy plant with vibrant foliage and strong growth.

Step 2: Start with a Young Plant

Begin with a young coleus plant about 6-8 inches tall, with a noticeable central stem. It’s easier to train younger plants since they are more flexible, and you’ll have more control over its growth direction.

Step 3: Stake the Stem for Support

Using a bamboo stake or thin wooden dowel, gently tie the main stem to the stake with soft plant ties or twist ties. This will help it grow straight up without bending, allowing the main stem to form the “trunk” of your coleus tree.

Tips for staking:

• Place the stake about an inch away from the plant’s main stem to avoid root disruption.
• Use flexible ties to prevent damage to the stem as it thickens over time.

Step 4: Prune Side Shoots

As your coleus grows, prune any side shoots or lower branches that emerge from the main stem. Focus on developing a single upright stem to resemble a tree trunk. This pruning encourages the plant’s energy to go toward the top, where the foliage “canopy” will form.

• Pro Tip: Keep a consistent pruning schedule, checking every couple of weeks for new growth that may need removal.

Step 5: Shape the Canopy

When the coleus reaches your desired height (usually around 18-24 inches for a small “tree”), allow the top foliage to grow without further pruning. Encourage bushier growth in the top section by pinching back the growing tips of the top branches. This will form a dense, vibrant canopy, giving the plant the full, leafy look of a tree.

Step 6: Provide Proper Care

Coleus trees require the same care as any coleus plant but with a few extra considerations:

• Sunlight: Coleus plants prefer bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf burn, while too little light results in leggy growth. If growing indoors, place your coleus near a bright window.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging. Over-watering can lead to root rot.
• Fertilizer: Feed your coleus every month with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer to support healthy growth.

Step 7: Maintain Regular Pruning

Even after your coleus tree has reached its desired shape, keep up with regular pruning. Remove any new growth emerging along the trunk to keep the tree form intact, and trim the canopy as needed to maintain its shape and fullness.

Tips for Success

1. Pinch Often: Regularly pinch back new growth on the canopy to keep it full and dense.
2. Rotate Your Plant: If indoors, rotate your coleus every few days to ensure even sunlight exposure.
3. Use Lightweight Soil: Choose a potting mix that drains well to prevent waterlogging, which can damage the roots.
4. Repot Annually: Coleus grows fast and may become root-bound. Repot each spring to refresh the soil and give roots more room.

Common Questions and Answers

Q1: Can I grow a coleus tree outdoors?

A: Yes! Coleus can be grown outdoors as a tree, but it’s important to remember that coleus is sensitive to frost. In colder climates, bring your coleus indoors before the first frost or treat it as an annual.

Q2: How long does it take for a coleus to form a tree shape?

A: Depending on the growth rate of the variety and environmental factors, it can take 6-12 months for a coleus to fully mature as a small tree. Starting with a young, healthy plant and consistent pruning can speed up this process.

Q3: What do I do if my coleus trunk starts bending?

A: Use a stake to provide extra support if your coleus begins to bend. Secure it gently to avoid damaging the stem, and ensure it receives even sunlight to prevent leaning.

Q4: Can I propagate my coleus tree?

A: Yes, you can easily propagate coleus through stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting from the top growth, root it in water or soil, and start a new coleus plant.

Q5: Why is my coleus losing its leaves?

A: Leaf drop in coleus can result from inadequate light, improper watering, or low humidity. Ensure your coleus receives bright, indirect light, consistent moisture, and keep it away from drafty areas.

Q6: Can I grow coleus trees from seeds?

A: While it’s possible to grow coleus from seeds, it’s usually quicker to start with a young plant, as growing from seed can be a slower process.

Conclusion

Growing coleus as a tree is a fun and rewarding project that turns an already beautiful plant into an exceptional statement piece. With the right techniques and consistent care, your coleus tree will thrive and add a unique burst of color to your space. Whether you’re looking to experiment with plant training or simply love the idea of a coleus tree, this guide has everything you need to transform a simple coleus plant into a lush, colorful “tree.”