Cosmea [Cupcakes Mixed] Cosmos bipinnatus Cupcakes Mixed

Water

Cosmos, commonly known as the Garden Cosmos or Mexican Aster, should be watered regularly but moderately, ensuring the soil does not become waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to water the Cosmos when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which might roughly translate to once a week depending on climate conditions. During hot summer days or in dryer climates, watering frequency may need to increase. Typically, watering with approximately one gallon of water per plant each time should suffice, allowing the water to soak in deeply to encourage strong root growth.

Light

The Garden Cosmos thrives best in full sun conditions, preferring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for this plant is an area that receives unobstructed sunlight throughout the day without significant shade. Garden Cosmos can tolerate some light shade, especially in hot climates, but full sun encourages optimal flowering and growth.

Temperature

For the Mexican Aster, the ideal temperature range for growth is between 70°F and 85°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 25°F but may be damaged by frost. Maximum temperatures can go as high as 100°F, although prolonged heatwaves might impact flowering. This plant generally does well in typical outdoor summer conditions found in temperate zones.

Pruning

Pruning the Cosmos is beneficial to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, should be done regularly to prolong the blooming period. Cutting back the plant by one-third mid-season can rejuvenate it and promote a second flush of flowers. The best time for major pruning is when the plant looks leggy or after the first significant batch of flowers begins to fade.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Cosmos, commonly known as Garden Cosmos or Mexican Aster, thrives in a well-draining soil mix with moderate fertility; heavy or clay soils should be amended with organic matter to improve drainage. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH between 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for this cosmos variety. The best soil mix might include equal parts garden soil, compost or well-rotted manure, and coarse sand or perlite to ensure good aeration and drainage.

Repotting

Garden Cosmos, or Mexican Aster, typically does not require frequent repotting as it is often grown as an annual. If started in containers, it may be necessary to repot when they outgrow their initial pot, usually when they are seedlings and have developed several sets of true leaves. Once in the landscape, they generally do not need to be repotted as they will complete their life cycle in one season.

Humidity & Misting

Garden Cosmos or Mexican Aster is quite tolerant of a range of humidity levels and does not require highly specific conditions. They prefer an environment that mimics their native habitat, so average ambient humidity will be sufficient for healthy growth. Excessively high humidity should be avoided as it may promote fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, amend soil with compost for best results.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

Cosmos, commonly referred to as Cosmos 'Cupcakes Mixed', begins its life cycle as a seed, typically sown in early spring after the threat of frost has passed. Upon germination, the seedling emerges and establishes itself, developing a root system and foliage in the form of ferny, bipinnate leaves. As the plant matures, it forms a sturdy stem and begins its vegetative growth phase, during which it focuses on producing more leaves and gaining height and breadth. The transition to the flowering stage occurs in the summer, when buds develop and bloom into distinctive cup-shaped flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Following pollination, the flowers produce seed heads that mature and, once dried, disperse seeds for the next generation. Typically, Cosmos completes its life cycle within one growing season, as they are annuals, dying off with the first hard frost, though they may self-seed under favorable conditions.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early Spring

• Propogation: Cosmos, specifically Cosmos Cupcakes Mixed, is most commonly propagated through seeds. The best time to sow these seeds is after the danger of frost has passed in the spring. Gardeners can start them indoors around 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost to get a head start. To propagate, you should plant the seeds shallowly, about 1/4 inch deep, in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and place the container in a warm spot with plenty of sunlight. Seeds typically germinate within 7 to 10 days. Once the seedlings have grown and the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outside into the garden, allowing them to develop into the delightful flowers known for their frilly, cupcake-liner-like petals.