Cosmea Sensation Series Cosmos bipinnatus Sensation Series

Water

Cosmos, commonly known as the Garden Cosmos, requires moderate watering. During the growing season, water the plant thoroughly once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water, depending on soil moisture and climate conditions. When temperatures are higher, you may need to water the Garden Cosmos twice a week. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogged conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot; allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between watering sessions.

Light

Garden Cosmos thrives best in full sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A spot that provides bright, unfiltered sunlight for the majority of the day is ideal. Too much shade can result in a spindly growth and fewer flowers, so choose a location where the plant won't be overshadowed by larger plants or structures.

Temperature

Garden Cosmos can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but grows best in conditions between 70°F and 85°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 25°F and maximum temperatures up to about 100°F. For optimal growth, place the Cosmos in a location where it is not exposed to extreme cold or heat.

Pruning

Pruning Garden Cosmos is mainly done to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. You can also pinch back the tips of young plants to encourage branching. The best time for major pruning is in early spring or late winter, just before new growth begins.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for growing Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus Sensation Series) is a well-draining, nutrient-rich mixture. A blend of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand is ideal. Maintain a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.

Repotting

Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus Sensation Series) are typically grown as annuals, so repotting is not generally required. If you start with seedlings indoors, transplant them outdoors after the last frost.

Humidity & Misting

Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus Sensation Series) are not very humidity sensitive and can thrive in average ambient humidity levels. They do well in the typical humidity found in outdoor gardens.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Cosmos in bright light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Full sun location, moist but well-draining soil, and space plants.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

Cosmos bipinnatus, commonly known as the Mexican Aster, begins its life as a seed which germinates in warm, moist soil, typically in spring or early summer. Upon sprouting, the seedling grows into a vegetative stage, developing a slender stem, feathery bipinnate leaves, and ultimately producing distinctive long-stalked flowers in shades of pink, purple, red, or white. Following the flowering stage during summer to fall, the plant enters the reproductive phase, where flowers are pollinated by insects like bees and butterflies, leading to the formation of seeds in the center of the flower. As the weather cools in the fall, the plant reaches maturity and begins to wilt, dropping its seeds to the soil for the next generation. Throughout its life cycle, this annual plant may self-sow, allowing new seedlings to emerge in the following growing season without direct human intervention.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Cosmos, specifically the Cosmos bipinnatus Sensation Series, is by seed. Gardeners typically sow Cosmos seeds directly into the garden after the last frost when the soil has warmed up, ensuring a suitable environment for germination. It is also possible to start the seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost. Seeds should be placed at a shallow depth, about 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters), and lightly covered with soil. They require a sunny spot and should be kept moist until germination, which usually takes 7 to 10 days. Seedlings can be thinned to about 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) apart after they've developed a couple of sets of true leaves. This spacing allows adequate room for each plant to grow and flourish without excessive competition for resources.