Cut Your Coleus Now

It's easy to root a few favorites-here's how.

Each fall, I find myself mourning those special plants that the first frost threatens to take away. Among these annual acquaintances is always coleus, and with cold weather looming around the corner, I just don't want to say good-bye. So I choose some to keep indoors through the winter. Coleus is so simple to root that it would be a shame not to try. Other plants that root well include Swedish ivy (Plectranthus sp.), geraniums, Dragon Wing Hybrid begonias, and basil. Just follow this method.

* Pick a cool time of day to take cuttings. Carry a bucket of water and clean, sharp pruners into the garden.

* From the top, go down the stem 4 or 5 inches, and cut directly above a set of leaves. Remove every leaf from the bottom 2 inches of the cut end so there will be no foliage below the waterline.

* Place the freshly cut stem into the water, and continue on to the next. When you've made all your cuttings, bring the bucket into the house or a shaded area.

* Separate the cuttings by type. Fill disposable cups or jelly jars with water, and place three or four cuttings into each. Set them in a windowsill or bright spot. Roots will develop in a few weeks. Change the water weekly, and pinch off any flowers that appear. In spring you'll have a few old friends ready to get your garden started.

ELLEN RUOFF RILEY

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Sep 2004
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