Coleus, Wizard Mixed Colors

How to Sow

START INDOORS in a warm, well-lighted area about 6-8 weeks before last frost. Sow shallowly in seed-starting formula. Keep evenly moist by covering the trays with glass or clear plastic until seedlings appear.

How to Grow

Seedlings emerge in 12-21 days at 65-85°F. Before transfer to garden, accustom to outdoor conditions by moving to a sheltered place outside for a week. Transplant hardened-off seedlings to the garden after all danger of frost. Coleus prefers rich, well-drained soil and a shady location protected from wind. Since the spiky flowers detract from the foliage display, remove spikes before they bloom. You’ll need to pinch the stem tips of most coleus plants to maintain their compact, bushy habit. Coleus plants are extremely easy to grow from cuttings. Choose a vigorous-looking stem tip, and cut off a 3-4" piece just below a leaf joint. Pull off the bottom set of leaves and place the cuttings in a glass of water, with its leaves resting on the edge of the glass and the stem in the water. Roots should appear in a week or two. Allow several roots to grow before transplanting. Check water daily to make sure stem is underwater, and replace it with fresh water every couple of days.

Harvesting

Coleus is great for window boxes, pots, hanging baskets, amd patio containers in partially shaded areas. Established plants are ideal for children to grow.