HOW TO GROW MIXED COSMOS FROM SEEDS

Cosmos prefer full sunlight, except when the temperature is exceptionally high when part shade is tolerated. Loosen the soil and remove weeds before planting. However, soils that are too moist may lead to disease. It prefers dry, arid environments over wet ones. Keep back on nitrogen-containing fertilizers, encouraging foliage to develop more quickly than flower blooms. After all danger of frost, scatter seeds have passed in the spring, as sprouts will grow quickly. Shorter varieties should be planted ten to twelve inches apart, while taller varieties should be planted one to two feet apart. Consider staking your Cosmos if they get too tall and gangly.

CARE FOR COSMOS FLOWER AFTER GERMINATION

Cosmos have multi-branching stems that are hollow and tubular. After the first bloom, keep the flowers cut back to encourage continued growth. If your Cosmos has well-established blossoms, trim them about a third of the way instead of just removing them. Keep watering until new blooms appear. Cosmos can hold themselves upright when planted together. Be prepared to stake taller varieties to protect them from the wind. Despite the need for moisture to get started, mature plants can adapt to drier conditions and require less watering. 

USES AND BENEFITS OF MIXED COSMOS FLOWER

With Cosmos, you can keep sufficient pollinator insects in your garden to help manage pests and pollinate your plants. For pollination and feeding pest insects, cosmos flowers attract beneficial insects, including lacewings, parasitic wasps, tachinid flies, and hoverflies. It is not considered edible to eat Cosmos bipinnatus, the most common species in the Cosmos family. It is safe for children and pets to grow around since it has no harmful properties.

Note: Information provided for guidance only, as cultural practices and climatic circumstances vary.

Specifications:

• Product: Cosmos seeds
• Season: Spring
• USDA Zones: 2-11
• Days to Harvest: 70-120 Days
• Soil Type: Loamy
• Temperature: 20-25° Degrees C
• Scientific Name: Cosmos bipinnatus
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Clade: Tracheophytes, Angiosperms, Eudicots, Asterids
• Order: Asterales
• Family: Asteraceae
• Genus: Cosmos
• Species: Bipinnatus