Cosmos Seeds, Cosmic Red

star-filled
4.8
4 Reviews
Sku:
#FL435
Min. seed count:
30
$3.50

Description

(Cosmos sulphureus). These brilliant, lipstick-red blooms are exceptionally easy to grow! The double and semi-double blooms reach 2 inches across, sitting atop 12- to 24-inch tall plants. A vigorous and carefree long-season bloomer that will attract tons of pollinator action.

  • Annual
  • 50-60 days to maturity
  • 6-8 hours of full sun
  • Sprouts in 7-14 days
  • Seed Depth: 1/8-1/4"
  • Plant Spacing: 10"
  • Ideal Temperature: 65-85 F
  • Frost Hardy: No

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Cosmic Red cosmos is a vibrant heirloom variety that is perfect for flower beds, borders, and containers. It is drought tolerant, heat resistant, and easy to grow, making it an excellent choice even for beginner gardeners. Deadhead regularly to encourage continuous blooming from midsummer until the first frost.

When to Grow

Plant cosmos after the last frost, when soil temperatures are consistently above 60 F. In colder climates, start seeds 3-4 weeks before the last expected frost and transplant them outdoors once the weather has warmed. In warm regions, cosmos can be grown nearly year-round. To determine the best planting time, check your local area’s frost dates. If you’re not sure how to do that, refer to our blog post ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’

How to Sow and Plant

Lightly press the seeds into the soil 1/8-1/4 inch deep, but do not cover them heavily, as they need light to germinate. Space plants about 10 inches apart for good airflow. Keep the soil evenly moist until seeds germinate, usually within 7-14 days. If you’re starting indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors only after the risk of frost has passed, being careful not to disturb the roots.

How to Grow

Make sure that you’ve chosen a location that receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid excessive fertilization, as too much nitrogen encourages leaf growth instead of flowers. Once established, cosmos are drought tolerant and require minimal watering. Overwatering can lead to weak stems and fewer blooms. Taller plants may need staking in windy areas. If plants become too tall or leggy, trim them back by one-third for bushier growth.

How to Save

  • Cosmos are insect pollinated, and there may be some crossing between varieties in the garden. You can enjoy the mixing or use caging techniques and hand pollination to avoid crossing.
  • Saving seeds from cosmos is easy: simply allow the heads to brown and dry on plants and collect seeds. Store in a cool, dry, dark place over winter.

FAQ

When will Cosmic Red cosmos start blooming?
This variety typically begins blooming 50-60 days after sowing, producing flowers from midsummer until the first frost.

Can Cosmic Red cosmos tolerate poor soil?
Yes, this variety thrives in moderate to poor soil and does not require heavy fertilization. If anything, you should avoid excessive fertilization, as it can cause excessive growth of the foliage and reduce flowering.

Do Cosmic Red cosmos plants need staking?
This variety is compact (1-2 feet tall) and typically does not require staking. However, in windy areas, light support may be helpful.

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Cosmos Seeds, Cosmic Red
star-filled
4.8
Customer reviews (4)

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