A bright cheery annual the Cosmos is an easy flower to grow and adds height and interest to a mixed border or looks stunning on its own. The clouds of feathery foliage set off the tall 3-4 feet tall flowers.

Tips for Growing Cosmos

• After all the frost has gone sow Cosmos seeds thinly, direct into the ground and just cover lightly. They like well drained soil and a bit of sun for the best flowering.
• When Cosmos get to about 3 inches tall thin out to 10 inches apart, about enough distance  to provide support for one another .
• Pinch out the growing tip when they get to 12-15 inches tall to encourage branching and more flowers.
• They are good as cut flowers, attract wildlife and if deadheaded should flower until the first frost.
• Plant in blocks rather than rows and if exposed to windy conditions provide some support.

Special Cosmos to Grow

• Colours range from white, pink, rose through to hot orange. Cosmos Sulphureus are mainly yellow and ‘Sunny Bars’ is a double yellow.
• The Chocolate Cosmos called Cosmos atrosanguineum is perennial and is best grown from a bought plant. The deep burgundy flowers smell of chocolate.
• Common species are available in mixtures like ‘Sensation’ or the dwarf ‘Sonata’.
• Variety ‘Sea Shells’ has unusual tubular petalled blossom.