Did you know that there is a species of chili pepper with 3-colored leaves?
How to sow ornamental nettles (Coleus) - step by step guide
Ornamental nettles are loved for their beautiful, colorful foliage and are surprisingly easy to grow yourself. With the right approach, you'll enjoy strong, healthy plants within weeks.
1. Sow on the light - not in the ground
The biggest mistake when sowing ornamental nettles is putting the seeds under the soil. This is because ornamental nettles need light to germinate. Therefore, always sow them on top of moist potting soil, without covering.
2. The right conditions
Light: lots of daylight or grow lights (distance ± 10 cm).
Temperature: ± 22 °C.
Moisture: keep soil continuously slightly moist, never let it dry out.
Tip: Use a small pot, greenhouse or plastic cup (with holes in the bottom for drainage).
3. Seed handling
The seeds are tiny. If necessary, use a damp cotton swab to remove them from the pouch.
Some seeds are pelleted (encased in clay) - keep them well moist so the clay dissolves and the seed can germinate. Sow a few inches apart for easy transplanting later.
4. Retaining moisture
Cover the pot with plastic wrap (with small holes) or a clear lid. Air briefly daily and, if necessary, moisten with a plant sprayer, preferably in the morning and evening.
5. Germination and growth
After ± 14 days, the first green germination leaves appear. Then the real leaves follow and you see the color pattern of the plant.
Are the seedlings long and thin? Then they are not getting enough light - put them lighter.
6. Weaning (transplanting).
When the plantlets have 4-6 leaves:
Wet the soil well.
Press gently into the pot and tilt it to loosen the root ball.
Carefully divide into smaller clumps and place each plant in a larger pot (± 12 cm) with airy, well-drained potting soil (preferably in a clay pot with holes and some leca at the bottom).
7. Care after transplanting
Tops: pinch out the growing tip for a fuller plant.
Pruning: remove flower buds to maintain leaf color longer.
Location: semi-shade, no direct bright afternoon sun.
Frost-free: ornamental nettles do not tolerate cold.
💡 Extra tip: The more often you top the plant, the bushier and more colorful it becomes.
