How to Grow Coleus

When you need a splash of color in the shade, consider coleus. This annual (grows just one year) produces beautiful foliage, adding an instant jolt of color.

Garden Trowels
Plants
Garden Hoses
Mulch
Compost Makers
Garden Spades
Fertilizers

Instructions

- 1
  Buy healthy plants with no signs of wilting or disease. Plants should be stocky with plenty of closely placed leaves.
- 2
  
  Plant coleus outdoors in spring, after all danger of frost has passed, in a site with partial to full shade. Choose rich, well-drained soil with plenty of moisture, and be sure to work in a spadeful or two of compost at planting time.
- 3
  
  Space plants 2 to 12 inches apart, depending on the mature height of the plants, which can range from 10 to 18 inches.
- 4
  
  Pinch off the tops and trim coleus flowers to encourage branching and a bushier, fuller plant.
- 5
  
  Keep soil moist. Mulching is a good idea.
- 6
  Fertilize every four to six weeks or work in a slow-release fertilizer at planting time.
- 7
  Tear out and discard plants in fall, after frost fells them.

How to Grow Fuchsia

How to Grow Zinnias

Growing Annuals