Cosmos Seeds, Sea Shells

star-filled
4.8
22 Reviews
Sku:
#FL247
Min. seed count:
50
$3.00

Description

(Cosmos bipinnatus). Here’s something unusual for cottage gardens or for cut flowers: the ray flowers of this charming cosmos are tubular or cone-shaped rather than flat, giving the blooms an intricate look. Three-inch flowers are produced abundantly all summer until frost, in the usual cosmos shades of deep rose, shell pink, and pure, snowy white. 

  • Annual
  • 60-90 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: 70-75 F
  • Frost Hardy: No

Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs

Growing Tips

Sea Shells cosmos is a unique heirloom variety that reaches 3-4 feet. Like most cosmos, it tolerates poor and dry soils, as well as hot conditions. Regular deadheading encourages more blooms. Avoid excessive fertilization, as that can lead to the growth of foliage at the expense of flowers.

When to Grow

Plant cosmos only after all danger of frost has passed, and temperatures remain steady at 70-75 F for optimal germination. Since cosmos are not frost-hardy, it's important to check your local region’s last frost date before planting outdoors. Blooming starts about 60-90 days after sowing and continues through summer and early fall until the first frost. Learn more about your area’s hardiness zones and first/last frost dates in our blog post ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds directly in the garden after the last frost, or start indoors 3-4 weeks earlier to get a head start on the growing season. Plant seeds at a depth of 1/8-1/4 inch, as they need some light to germinate. Space plants around 10 inches apart for good airflow and healthy growth. Germination typically takes 7-14 days. Choose a location that gets 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day for the best flowering.

How to Grow

Sea Shells cosmos thrives in poor to average soil, as rich soil can lead to excessive foliage with fewer blooms. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings to prevent weak, leggy growth. In windy areas, taller plants may need staking to prevent them from falling over. To keep the flowers blooming all season, remove spent blooms regularly. Cosmos tolerate heat and drought well, making them an excellent choice for low-maintenance summer gardens.

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

What makes Sea Shells cosmos different from other cosmos varieties?
This variety has unique tubular petals. This gives the blooms a fluted, seashell-like appearance, unlike the flat petals of standard cosmos.

Can Sea Shells cosmos be grown in containers?
Yes, but choose a large pot with good drainage, as cosmos have long taproots and need room to spread. This variety also grows quite tall, so the plants might need staking.

Do Sea Shells cosmos reseed themselves?
Yes, cosmos readily self-seed, meaning new plants may sprout in the same area the following year if seed heads are left to drop naturally.

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Cosmos Seeds, Sea Shells
star-filled
4.8
Customer reviews (22)

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