Coleus Crazy

On a recent walk through my garden, I counted 14 varieties of coleus planted in various containers and flower beds. I guess you could say I've gone a little coleus crazy, but it's hard not to. These plants are deer resistant, heat tolerant, suitable for a variety of light conditions and the colors and patterns are just amazing.

Plants don't get much more carefree than coleus. You can pretty much plant them and forget them. With the right light conditions for the variety, consistent moisture and average, but well drained soil these plants will reward you with vibrant foliage until the first frost.

When it comes to feeding just apply a slow release fertilizer at the time of planting, following the manufacturer's instructions. It is also recommended that you pinch back the blooms. This will direct the plant's energy toward producing leaves and maintain a fuller shape.

Below are a few of my favorites.

Fishnet Stockings Partial Shade or Full Shade 24 - 36 Inches Good Color and Form All Summer	Kingswood Torch Sun or Shade 16 - 18 Inches Very Vigorous	Pink Chaos Sun or Shade 6 - 12 Inches Great for Containers
Religious Radish Sun or Shade 24 - 36 Inches Vigorous and Bushy	Sedona Partial Sun or Shade 12 - 18 Inches Mixes Well with Blue	The Flume Sun or Partial Shade 16 - 24 Inches
Texas Parking Lot Sun or Shade 12 - 18 Inches Very Vigorous

The plants featured in this article are from Proven Winners®.  Visit www.provenwinners.com to purchase online or find a retailer in your area.