Learn Growing Coleus Cuttings in Water in easy steps for a beautiful show of colorful foliage in your indoor water garden.
Native to the tropics of Asia, Coleus belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It displays opposite foliage and square stems. This shade-loving plant is grown primarily for its leaves in yellow, green, red, and maroon shades but not for flowers. It can reach up to 6-36 inches tall. You can grow this plant from seeds and cuttings. Here, you will learn about Growing Coleus Cuttings in Water in easy steps.
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How to Grow Coleus Cuttings in Water
Things You’ll Need:
- A healthy coleus plant
- Glass jar or vase
- Pruning shears or a pair of scissors
- Non-chlorinated water
- Rooting hormone (optional)
Directions:
1. Choose a Healthy Cutting
Cut a healthy 4-6 inches long cutting from a coleus plant in spring or summer below the node and discard lower leaves. Leave at least two foliage at the top.
2. Rooting Hormone (Optional)
Dip the cut ends in the rooting hormone for better growth, though this step is optional.
3. Propagate Coleus in Water
Now, plant the cutting in a glass jar or vase filled with water, and make sure the nodes are submerged in the water. The node is the point where leaves and roots will emerge. Use non-chlorinated water; if you have tap water, then also let it sit for 24 hours to disperse chlorine.
4. Change the Water
Change the water every couple of days to prevent the growth of algae and promote healthy growth.
5. Ideal Location
Keep your water-grown coleus where they get bright, indirect sunlight. Do not expose the plant to direct sun.
6. Wait for Root Development
Be patient, as rooting may take a few weeks. You can see the root growth in the transparent glass jar easily. Continue to change water and provide indirect sunlight.
7. Transplanting to Soil (Optional)
When roots grow up to an inch or two long, you can transplant the rooted cutting to pots filled with well-draining soil. However, it is optional, as you can continue to grow coleus in water permanently without soil for years.
8. Feed Them
Feed your water-grown coleus plants using a pinch of balanced liquid fertilizer every third or fourth time while changing the water. By doing this, you can grow this plant in water for an extended period. For organic feeding, use worm-casting tea or aquarium water diluted every once in many weeks for healthy growth
Read: Growing Snake Plants in Water
Points to Remember
- While changing water, rinse the jar to remove bacteria or fungi. Also, cut back the rotten parts or thick brown outer coverings of aerial roots.
- You can add a piece of activated charcoal to the jar; it will keep the water clean.
- Keep the jar where it receives indirect light.
