How to Grow Coleus Seeds

How to Grow Coleus Seeds thumbnail
Coleus are easily grown from seed.

Coleus seeds turn into large, brightly colored plants if given the proper care. Coleus will thrive in containers or in the ground for use as a border or anywhere you want a burst of color. One interesting characteristic of the coleus is that no two seeds produce the same pattern on the leaves. Coleus plants can add rich color and texture to your environment. Does this Spark an idea?

Things You'll Need

  • Potting mix
  • Peat moss or sand
  • Tray or containers
  • Cellophane
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pour African violet potting mix or a similar medium about 3 inches deep into a tray or pot with good drainage. Mix in a handful of peat moss or dry, clean sand.

    • 2

      Sprinkle the coleus seeds over the planting mix. Push the seeds gently into the soil with your hand.

    • 3

      Place the tray or pot into a container of warm water. This method waters the seeds and soil from the bottom up without disturbing the seeds. Remove the pot or tray from the water once the soil becomes moist. Place a piece of cellophane over the container to keep moisture inside.

    • 4

      Place the seed container in a location that is both shaded and warm. If the soil becomes dry, place it in a container of warm water again.

    • 5

      Monitor the seeds for germination, which typically occurs about 10 days after sowing. Punch small holes in the cellophane once you identify sprouts emerging from the seeds, as they need oxygen to survive.

    • 6

      Transplant the seedlings once they have four or six leaves. Do so by carefully digging up the seedlings with a spoon and placing them in the ground or in bigger, individual containers. Place them in holes that are about twice as big as their roots and then cover the roots with soil. After transplanting, pinch the top two leaves off of the coleus to encourage the seedlings to grow into sturdy, bushy plants.

Tips & Warnings

  • Coleus typically grows best in partial to full sun.

  • Coleus can be planted with other plants, such as begonias or petunias.

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References

  • Photo Credit Medioimages/Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images

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