Teresa, you don't HAVE TO cut them. Sometimes I let them grow even though they aren't much to look at. Pinching them back periodically, including the blooms, allows the plant to become fuller, bushier. Coleus are wonderful plants! Enjoy

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Rosie z7a

Coleus are annuals and if you allow them to set seed they will died shortly after that. Which is one reason it is a good idea to pinch off the blooms as well as helping the plant stay bushy. I put mine outside this summer and it is now about 3 feet tall. I took some cuttings and rooted them and the big plant is going to a friend that has more room than I do.

I hope you enjoy your plant.

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