You can grow coleus yourself from seeds. However, this is a rather lengthy matter. If you enjoy it, have the space and a little patience, then you should give it a try.
How do you grow coleus from seeds?
Coleus seeds can be grown from a commercially available mix. The seeds are light germinators and should be placed in potting soil at at least 20 °C for about 14-21 days. However, coleus can be propagated more quickly and easily via cuttings.
Where do you get coleus seeds?
Coleus has very decorative foliage, but fewer beautiful flowers. That's why they are often removed right from the start. This means the plant doesn’t “waste” any energy on flower and seed formation and can instead concentrate on lush growth. So collecting seeds from your own plants is usually not necessary.
You can usually get coleus seeds commercially in a very colorful mix with different color variations. If you only want to draw a specific color, then you will have a relatively large amount of effort. Because the coleus only reveals the secret of its color when it has developed around five pairs of leaves.
Sowing the coleus
The coleus seeds are very small and fine. Sprinkle them carefully on a container with good potting soil. Gently moisten the soil with a water mister to avoid washing away the seeds. As light germinators, they must not be covered with soil.
In a mini greenhouse or under a transparent film, it is easier to maintain the required germination temperature of at least 20 °C than openly in the room. When the first cotyledons appear, you should remove the film immediately. However, this will take about two to three weeks.
Can coleus be propagated in other ways?
Sowing coleus is certainly not recommended for the impatient. Propagation through cuttings is much easier and takes much less time. This way you can quickly have new coleus for your garden or windowsill. Cut the cuttings about 10 cm long with at least two to three pairs of leaves. The cut shoots should not be too fresh, but rather robust.
What you need to know about coleus seeds:
- Light germinator
- very small
- Germination time: about 14 – 21 days
- Germination temperature: at least 20 °C
Tip
Cutting cuttings is recommended as a quick way of propagation.
