Coleus Red velvet seed pack of 30 seeds Imported

Coleus Red velvet is a stunning variety of coleus, prized for its vibrant foliage and striking color contrasts. This variety has dark red leaves with deep green edges, creating a dramatic look in the garden or as a container plant. It’s a versatile plant that can thrive in both sunny and shaded areas, making it a popular choice for adding color to beds, borders, and hanging baskets.

Key Features 

• Leaf Color: The foliage is a rich burgundy red with contrasting green edges, creating a velvet-like appearance. The coloration can vary depending on growing conditions, with more intense reds appearing in sunnier spots.
• Growth Habit: Coleus ‘Red Velvet’ typically has a compact, bushy growth habit, growing to around 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) tall and wide.
• Sun Requirements: While coleus is generally shade-loving, ‘Red Velvet’ can tolerate partial sun, but the brightest color is often achieved with more indirect light or dappled shade.
• Flowering: Like most coleus varieties, ‘Red Velvet’ is grown primarily for its foliage rather than its flowers. If it does bloom, the small flowers are typically blue to purple, but they are often removed to encourage more vibrant leaf growth.
• Hardiness: Coleus is a tender perennial in USDA zones 10-11, but it is usually grown as an annual in cooler regions where frost is common.

How to Grow Coleus ‘Red Velvet’ from Seed

1. Starting Seeds Indoors

Coleus can be grown from seed, though the process can be a bit tricky as coleus seeds are very small. It’s best to start seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost.

• When to Start: Start seeds indoors in early spring (around February to March), depending on your region’s last frost date.

2. Supplies You’ll Need

• Coleus Red velvet: Ensure you have Coleus ‘Red Velvet’ seeds, which can be purchased from a nursery or online.
• Seed Starting Tray or Pots: Use seed trays, peat pots, or small containers.
• Potting Mix: Use a light, well-draining seed-starting mix. Avoid heavy garden soil as it can become compacted.
• Grow Light or Bright Window: Coleus needs bright light to germinate and grow strong, so use a grow light or place the tray in a sunny spot.
• Clear Plastic or Dome: To retain moisture and warmth during germination.

3. How to Plant the Seeds

• Fill the Tray: Fill your seed tray or pots with the seed-starting mix and moisten it lightly.
• Sow the Seeds: Coleus seeds are tiny, so gently sprinkle them on the surface of the soil. Do not cover the seeds, as they require light for germination.
• Humidity and Temperature: Cover the tray with clear plastic or a dome to maintain humidity. The ideal temperature for germination is 70-75°F (21-24°C).
• Light: Place the tray under a grow light or in a bright, sunny window, ensuring the seeds get about 12-16 hours of light per day.

4. Germination and Seedling Care

• Germination Time: Coleus seeds typically germinate in 7-14 days. Keep the soil moist but not soggy during this period.