Coleus Sky Fire

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: This variety thrives in part sun to full shade. While it can handle some morning sun, midday intensity can scorch the velvety leaves, so aim for a spot that gets around 3 to 4 hours of dappled light for the best color saturation.
• Soil: Plant in rich, well drained soil that stays consistently moist but never soggy. If you have heavy clay, mix in plenty of compost or aged bark to improve drainage, or consider planting in a raised container to prevent root rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first few weeks after planting, check the soil daily and water whenever the top inch feels dry to keep the root ball from shrinking. Once established, Sky Fire needs about an inch of water per week, as inconsistent moisture leads to wilting and "crispy" leaf edges. These plants are not drought tolerant, so a layer of mulch helps maintain the steady hydration they crave.

Pruning Tips

Think of pruning like a regular haircut to keep the plant bushy rather than leggy. Use your fingers to pinch off the tips of the stems every few weeks, which forces the plant to branch out instead of growing tall. It is also vital to pinch off any flower spikes as soon as they appear because blooming signals the plant to stop producing its vibrant foliage.

Fertilizer Needs

Use a balanced, water soluble fertilizer once every two weeks throughout the growing season to support the intense pigment production. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this can cause the plant to prioritize weak green growth over the deep burgundy and crimson tones you want. A steady supply of nutrients ensures the foliage remains thick and lush until the first frost.