Cosmea 'Casanova Pink' Cosmos bipinnatus 'Casanova Pink' (Casanova Series)

Water

Cosmos, commonly known as Garden Cosmos, should be watered regularly but allows the soil to dry out between watering sessions to prevent root rot. It's ideal to water them once a week with about one to two gallons, depending on the weather conditions; hot, dry climates may require more frequent watering. A deep watering is preferable to encourage deeper root growth. During the growing season, increase the frequency to ensure consistent soil moisture, but always check that the top inch of soil is dry before watering again.

Light

Garden Cosmos thrives in full sunlight and should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade may lead to leggy plants and reduced flowering. Ensure the Cosmos receives ample morning sun, which is less intense than the afternoon sun, to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

Temperature

Garden Cosmos prefer a moderate temperature range and can tolerate temperatures as low as 25°F before being at risk of frost damage. They thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 90°F, which is the ideal range for optimal growth and flowering. However, they can survive in higher temperatures if provided with sufficient water to prevent wilting.

Pruning

Pruning Garden Cosmos is important for maintaining their shape and encouraging continuous blooming. Pinch off the tips of young plants to encourage branching, and deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote new blooms. Pruning should be done throughout the blooming season, which is typically from midsummer until the first frost. The best time to prune is in the morning when the plant is well-hydrated.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Garden Cosmos, commonly known as Cosmos, thrives in well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A best soil mix for Cosmos would contain equal parts of garden soil, peat or compost, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Fertility should be moderate as high fertility can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of bloom.

Repotting

Cosmos are typically grown as annuals and therefore do not require repotting as they are generally sown directly into the garden or container where they will bloom for a single season. In the case of growing perennials or saving plants, repotting can be done in early spring before the new growth starts.

Humidity & Misting

Cosmos are not particularly humidity-sensitive and can thrive in a range of humidity levels found in typical outdoor environments. They do not require high humidity environments and can perform well with the ambient humidity levels generally encountered in temperate climates.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moderately moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and water moderately.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

Cosmos 'Casanova Pink' begins its life when a seed germinates in soil after the last frost date, provided it's in a location with ample sunlight and well-drained soil. Emerging seedlings develop true leaves and transition to the vegetative growth stage, focusing energy on developing a strong stem and leaf structure. As it matures, the plant enters the flowering stage, where it produces its characteristic pink, daisy-like flowers, attracting pollinators to help with the reproduction process. Following pollination, the flowers develop into seed heads containing seeds that can be dispersed by wind or animal movement. If conditions allow, these seeds can drop to the soil to self-sow, lying dormant until the next season. Alternatively, the plant can be propagated intentionally by collecting and sowing seeds or by dividing established plants.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• Propogation: Cosmos bipinnatus 'Casanova Pink', commonly known as Cosmos, is most commonly propagated through seeds. The ideal time to sow Cosmos seeds is in early spring, after the last frost when soil temperatures reach approximately 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.6 degrees Celsius). To propagate, simply scatter the seeds directly onto a well-drained soil surface and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the area gently until the seeds germinate, which typically occurs within 7 to 10 days. Thinning the seedlings to around 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 centimeters) apart ensures that each plant has enough space to grow. This method is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing a garden filled with these beautiful pink blooms.