I successfully took cuttings of Coleus and Plectranthus last year. I took approximately a 6-inch cutting. If I took a 12- to 18-inch cutting this fall, would I be that much further ahead toward having larger and bushier plants next spring and summer?

The answer to this question is an easy one. You say, “I successfully took cuttings of Coleus and Plectranthus last year.” It is hard for any gardener to improve on success with our plants, as hard as we may try. Sometimes we just need to leave well enough alone and enjoy our success and the fruits of our labors. Softwood stem cuttings taken in the fall from these plants (prior to a killing frost) can be enjoyed indoors all winter long. Then in March or April, again take several more cuttings and cultivate them to be planted in the garden when the weather warms. Use a sharp, clean knife to cut the stem just below a leaf node. Remove the lowest leaves, dip the cut end into a rooting hormone and insert into fresh, sterile potting soil. These cuttings will be ready to use in the garden by early June. A 4- to 6-inch cutting is a good size and any longer would be too long to successfully plant upright and could become a leggy plant. Both Coleus and Plectranthus should be pinched often to maintain their bushy habit.