Green, yellow, pink, red, purple and maroon. The plant sometimes flowers at the end of long stems; trim the stems for a more compact, bushy plant.

PLANTING

• • Coleus can easily be started from seed indoors about 10 weeks before the last frost date in your region.
  • Set out the plants after all risk of frost has passed.
  • Choose a location that is protected from wind. Coleus stems break off easily.
  • Coleus needs well-draining soil.
  • Water the plant thoroughly after planting.
  • During the first week after planting, keep the root ball moist but not too wet.

GROWING

• • Coleus will rot if overwatered, so water only when the top inch of soil is dry.
  • Frequently pinch growing shoots of young plants to encourage branching and bushy growth.
  • Fertilize in mid-summer with a liquid fertilizer at half the recommended strength.
  • Cut off flower spikes in late summer to extend the life of the plant and encourage the growth of new colorful leaves.

Wintering Coleus

In colder regions, take cuttings from your plants before the first frost in the fall and place them in water to root.

Plant the rooted cuttings in small pots and store near a sunny window for the winter.ed, Purple, and Maroon. The plant does bloom occasionally at the end of long stalks; trim the stalks for a more compact, bushy plant.