Cosmea 'Fizzy Rose Picotee' Cosmos bipinnatus 'Fizzy Rose Picotee' (Fizzy Series)

Water

Cosmos, commonly known as the Garden Cosmos, requires consistent moisture but should not be overwatered. It is best to water the plant deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water which allows moisture to reach the roots. Increase the frequency during prolonged dry spells or when temperatures are exceptionally high. If the plant is in a pot, ensure it has proper drainage and reduce watering slightly to prevent soggy soil. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it's essential to let the soil dry out slightly between watering sessions.

Light

Garden Cosmos thrives best in full sunlight, meaning it should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. This will ensure adequate growth and bloom production. An ideal spot would be an area with unobstructed access to sunlight, away from taller plants or structures that could cast shade on it throughout the day.

Temperature

Garden Cosmos performs well in a variety of temperature conditions but prefers a moderate range between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a minimum temperature down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but frost can be detrimental. The maximum temperature should not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods, as extreme heat can stress the plant.

Pruning

Pruning Garden Cosmos is necessary to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, should be done regularly to promote continuous flowering. Additionally, cutting back the plant by one-third in midsummer can rejuvenate it and lead to a new flush of blooms. The best time for pruning is before the plant sets seeds or when the blooms start to diminish.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Garden cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus 'Fizzy Rose Picotee') thrive in a well-draining soil mix with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. For best results, mix garden soil with compost and a little sand or perlite to improve drainage. Regular garden soil enriched with organic matter will support healthy growth and flowering.

Repotting

Cosmos, commonly known as garden cosmos, don't typically require repotting as they are annual plants. They complete their life cycle in one growing season and therefore, sowing new seeds each year is preferable to repotting.

Humidity & Misting

Garden cosmos prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable and can tolerate the humidity levels found in most outdoor environments. They do not have specific humidity requirements, making them versatile in various climates.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, and ensure good air circulation for garden cosmos.

• Outdoor

  Choose a sunny spot and plant in well-draining soil for garden cosmos.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Cosmos 'Fizzy Rose Picotee' begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed. The seedlings quickly grow into young plants with feathery foliage, and as temperatures continue to rise, they enter a vegetative growth phase where they develop their characteristic bushy habit. Following the vegetative stage, the plant starts to bud, and the distinctive bicolored pink and white flowers of 'Fizzy Rose Picotee' emerge, usually blooming from midsummer to fall. During the flowering stage, the plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which facilitate cross-pollination, essential for seed production. As the season progresses and temperatures cool, the plant enters the senescence phase where the petals wilt, seed heads form, and the plant eventually dies back, dropping seeds to the soil. These seeds may remain dormant over winter, completing the cycle by germinating the following spring if conditions are favorable.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Cosmos bipinnatus 'Fizzy Rose Picotee', commonly known as Cosmos, is most effectively propagated through seeds. To propagate by seed, it is best to sow them directly into the ground where they are to grow after the last frost has passed. Spread the seeds thinly over prepared soil and cover lightly with about 1/8 inch (approximately 3 millimeters) of fine earth. Keep the soil moist through gentle watering until germination, which typically occurs within 7 to 14 days. Thinning the seedlings is necessary once they reach about 2-3 inches tall to prevent overcrowding and to ensure healthy growth. This direct sowing ensures that the delicate root systems of the Cosmos are not disturbed, as they do not tend to transplant well.