Various garden magazines and catalogs list coleus for instant color in dull places. An old gardening expression, “As easy as coleus,” is true. Plainly stated, coleus are easily grown either from seed or as purchased plants, although there have been many changes in them the past 15 years. Color choices have grown immensely and the plants last longer.

Most people grow this plant for their glorious leaves, but by the end of summer when frost is just a few weeks away, let coleus go to flower and enjoy brilliant blue flowers over brightly-colored leaves. The combinations are wonderful and lots of fun. Just remember to keep then deadheaded until the time you desire the plant to bloom. Deadheading prolongs the life of the plant, as well, and keeps some of the leggy-ness away. However, don’t exhibit coleus with flowers or you may lose to a nicely shaped plant with flowers removed.

There are so many new leaf color combinations, we don’t have space to mention them, but imagine fuchsia and green leaves, burgundy and red, yellow with red, velvety black mixed with hot pink or yellow, plus leaves that are ruffled, straight edged, saw-tooth edged and every combination.

Many people have had luck holding favorite coleus over winter. All you need to do is root a cutting in water, plant in a pot and keep cool around 50 degrees. With proper water and light, and you can replant your favorite coleus again next summer.

Many of the coleus of the past were just shade plants; now we need to read the planting label or seed package instructions to know how much sun or shade. This is very important, for it will impact the life or death of the plant.

Once you have your packet of seed or your plants, wait until all danger of frost is past to plant. Watch for mealy bugs and spider mites and call your nurseryman or extension office to know which insecticide to use if there is a problem.