Coleus
I now live in Waunakee, WI (just north of Madison). I have several great Sun Coleus in my yard that I would like to somehow overwinter and use as the basis for several beds next year. These plants have spouted flower stems and the plants are rather large. What is a good way to store them? I also want to store quite a few sweet potato vine tubers as well. Can I place them in vermiculite and in a plastic tub in my basement?
Take 3 to 4" cuttings of your coleus. Root the cuttings in moist vermiculite or a well-drained potting mix. I find setting the pot in a plastic bag left open increases the humidity to encourage rooting without leading to rot. Once rooted, they can be moved to their permanent container, placed in a sunny location and watered as needed. You can also take cutting of your sweet potato and grow it like a houseplant for winter. Or store the tuberous roots in a cool dark location. Harvest the tuberous roots, remove the dried foliage being careful not to damage the eyes (growing points). Allow to cure overnight and pack in peat moss or vermiculite for winter. Store in a cool dark place to keep the tuberous roots firm and dormant.
