Radiant Cosmos

• Known for their ease of growing.
• They usually thrive in sunny locations.
• Great for cut flowers.
• Compact varieties can be around 60cm (2ft), while tall varieties reach over 1.2m (4ft).
• Seeds are best sown in spring and planted outside after the last frosts, typically around mid-May in Suffolk.

• Deadheading is recommended to stimulate further flower production.
• Lowest maintenance and floweriest garden plants.
• Grow in garden beds, patio containers and pots, window boxes, or hanging baskets.
• Plant with Calandula, Zinnia, Nicotiana, Dahlias, Hardy Geraniums, Eryngium, Verbena and more.

Location:

Cosmos thrive in ordinary garden soil with good drainage, provided it doesn’t become waterlogged during the summer. They prefer full sun and won’t flower well in shady spots.

Sowing and Planting:

You can sow Cosmos seeds indoors in spring or outdoors in early summer after the last frost. Alternatively, buy sturdy young plants in pots ready to plant in your garden from a good plant nursery such as Woolpit Nurseries. When planting, ensure the soil is weed-free and finely textured.

Where to Plant:

These bedding plants prefer sunny locations, though some can tolerate partial shade. Add colour to your outdoor space by planting them in garden borders, and in the vegetable garden to attract pollinators, or chose a smaller variety to plant in containers, hanging baskets, or window boxes.

Watering

Young cosmos plants require regular watering, especially during the first few months. Once established, they typically only need watering during dry or hot spells. Container-grown plants, such as those in hanging baskets or patio pots, may need more frequent watering due to faster drying.

Feeding

While cosmos generally don’t require additional feeding in garden borders, applying a potassium-rich liquid fertilizer every couple of weeks can enhance flowering, especially for container-grown plants. Slow-release fertilizers can also be added to compost when planting containers.

Weed Control

Regular weeding is essential to prevent weeds from competing with your cosmos plants for light, water, and nutrients. Stay vigilant and remove weeds as soon as they appear.

Deadheading

Keep your cosmos blooming by deadheading dead flowers. This simple task ensures continuous flowering until October or the first frosts. Or pick your blooms for stunning indoor flower arrangements.