Are you interested in growing coleus but not sure how to start? Whether you prefer sowing seeds indoors or planting potted coleus, this article will guide you through the process, providing you with all the information you need for a successful coleus gardening experience.
Sowing Seeds Indoors
Sowing coleus seeds indoors is a great option if you want to get a head start on the growing season. Here’s what you need to do:
- Start by sowing the seeds indoors approximately 6-8 weeks before the last frost using a seed starting kit.
- Sow the seeds shallowly and lightly cover them with fine seed starting soil.
- Maintain soil moisture at a temperature of 65-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Coleus can benefit from bottom heat, so consider using a heating mat if available.
- The seedlings should emerge within 12-21 days.
- Once the seedlings emerge, provide them with plenty of light. You can either place them on a sunny windowsill or use fluorescent plant lights. Remember to keep the lights on for 16 hours per day and turn them off for 8 hours at night. Avoid using incandescent bulbs as they can generate too much heat. Most plants require a dark period to grow, so don’t leave the lights on 24/7.
- Once the seedlings have developed two sets of leaves, thin them to one seedling per cell.
- At around 3-4 weeks old, you can start feeding the seedlings with a starter solution. Follow the manufacturer’s directions and use half the strength of a complete indoor houseplant food.
- After the last frost, transplant the hardened-off seedlings to your garden. Remember to acclimate them to the outdoor conditions by gradually exposing them to a sheltered place outside for a week. Protect them from wind and excessive sun exposure, and bring them indoors or cover them if there’s a risk of frost at night. This hardening off process helps the plants adapt to the outdoor environment, minimizing transplant shock and scalding.
Planting Potted Plants in the Garden
If you prefer to skip the seed sowing process, you can start with potted coleus plants. Follow these steps for successful planting:
- Choose a location in your garden that receives full to part shade and has good, well-drained organic soil. Make sure the location is protected from strong winds.
- Prepare the planting bed by turning the soil under to a depth of 8 inches. Remove any clumps of grass and stones using a rake.
- Most plants respond well to soil amended with organic matter. If you have compost, add it to your planting area at any time. Compost provides essential nutrients and an ideal pH level for optimal plant growth. If compost is not available, you can top-dress the soil with 1-2 inches of organic mulch after planting. This mulch will gradually break down and enrich the soil. Before the next growing season, consider conducting a soil test to determine any necessary soil amendments.
- In the garden, space the coleus plants 12 inches apart for optimal growth.
- Dig a hole for each plant, ensuring it is large enough to accommodate the root ball comfortably.
- Place the plant in the hole, making sure it is level with the surrounding soil. Fill the hole with soil up to the top of the root ball, pressing it down firmly to ensure good root-to-soil contact. Leave a slight depression around the plant to hold water.
- Thoroughly water the newly planted coleus plants until a puddle forms in the saucer you have created. This will help settle the plants, remove air pockets, and establish strong root-to-soil connections.
- Use the plant tag as a location marker, allowing you to keep track of where you planted each coleus variety.
- Lastly, remember to water your coleus regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. However, avoid overwatering as coleus plants dislike soggy conditions.
Now that you have all the planting information you need, it’s time to get started with your coleus garden. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy the vibrant colors and unique foliage patterns of this beautiful and versatile plant. Happy gardening!
