Last night as I was sorting through my seed packets and organizing them by their planting dates, I came across a packet of Rainbow Blend Coleus seeds and smiled. I first started growing coleus about 10 years ago when Mrs. HB and I were neighbors.
I had seen some crazy lush hanging baskets and planters for sale at Watson’s Greenhouse and remember thinking there was no way I’d be able to grow them in containers the way they had. Well, I was wrong.
I’ve grown Coleus in Washington and here in New England now and I’m happy to report, they have done beautifully on each coast. Coleus is SUPER easy to grow, and well, they just keep on getting bigger and bigger as the season progresses and I’m looking forward to planting them again this year.
This time around though, I think I’ll plant them in a few pots on the front porch. I think they’ll look fantastic against the backdrop of our little white house, and hopefully add a little joy to the people who walk by everyday with their dogs.
Planting season, it’s nearly here! And I’m excited.
A happy Wednesday to you all,
~Mavis
Brief description: Coleus is a perfect ornamental annual for shady areas. It adds a pop of awesome color where other plants cannot thrive. Choose different varieties to add more depth and varying colors.
Where to Plant Coleus: Plant coleus in raised beds, garden beds, containers, hanging baskets, as indoor house plants, etc.
Planting Seeds: Coleus seeds need light to germinate, so press seed into the surface of your soil and do not cover. When plants are 1″ tall, thin to 1 every 6″-12″. Start indoors 6-8 weeks before average last frost in your area. If you are starting them outdoors, wait until 1-2 weeks after the last frost.
Growing Tips: Plant in an area with shade to part sun. Keep plants moist–mulching is a good idea to help with this.
Are you ready to start your garden but you’re not sure when you should plant your seeds or set out your transplants? Head on over HERE and you’ll be taken to a handy dandy chart that is broken down into what vegetables should be planted {or transplanted} each month in your area.
Anyone can do this. Dirt + Seeds+ Water = Food and Flowers!
Virginia says
Coleus questions! I see what looks like a lot of seedlings in one growing pot. Curious how many seeds you plant in each pot, and do you thin them? Also, how many coleus did you plant in the square garden container with the trellis? I like a full look but never know whether to follow the recommended spacing or not. I bought some specialty coleus seeds a few years ago and want to plant them this year. I hope they’re still viable and will germinate (fingers crossed).
Lana says
I do about 75 pots on our large deck every year and it has been many years since I had to plant any since they self sow so readily. I just watch for the seedlings and carefully lift them out and put them where I want them for the year. I also pinch cuttings and root them in water if I need more plants. My Mom always grew coleus when I was a child over 50 years ago and I remember my grandmother growing them.
Sandra G. says
okay I know this is about coleus but I have a thought about that little space by the window. If the window is facing North how about a collection of African violets and their cousins. There also could be a herb garden with fairy houses You could even place a bunch of pretty birdhouses. You could even make a puggle spot bench with a mirror over it to reflect the light around the house. I”t could even hold a large poster of ships in a harbor or a lobster.
Debbie - MountainMama says
Thank you for the reminder about Coleus!!! I just ordered some seeds, can’t wait!