I waffle every year on whether or not I want to have any coleus in my containers. I prefer coleus when it’s smaller, so it acts as a foliage accent. Containers of huge overflowing coleus just don’t appeal to me. The problem is coleus likes to grow big. Cutting it back too often leads to a stubby-looking plant. I am going to try again with two sun coleus and limit them to larger containers.
FAVOURITE VARIETIES AND SOURCES
Stokes Seeds
- Premium Sun Chocolate Covered Cherry – new 2024
- Premium Sun Lim Delight
| Hardiness | 50°F or 10°C |
| Exposure | Full sun, part shade |
| Deer resistant | Maybe |
| Bloom time & length | None, grow for foliage |
| Deadheading | Remove flowers |
| Water/soil | Medium, should not let coleus dry out |
| Height | 14-18 inches |
| Width | 14-18 inches |
| Fertilizer | Every two weeks |
My own notes: let these be a stand-alone in a container or mix with only a few other low-growing annuals. I tried growing some in the garden last year but they did not take off. Coleus likely needs some supplemental fertilizer in a garden.
SEED STARTING
- start seeds 11 weeks before last frost date (March 4)
- sow in small cell trays
- press seed into the soil surface, do not cover, needs light to germinate
- keep soil warm, temperature 70-75°F, germinates in 10 to 14 days
- use warm water
In late summer, take cuttings and root in water. Start new mother plants for next year if I decide I like these varieties.
GROWING CONDITIONS
- Initially grow at warmer temperature 72-75°F (22-24°C)
- Cooler when they get large (day) 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Water early in the day or ensure leaves don’t get wet.