Cosmos Dwarf Sensation Mixed – 60 Seeds – 14957

Description

At just 60cm (24in) tall, this beautiful blend of red and pink shades plus white is lower growing than many other cosmos, so is ideal for beds or the front of borders, and is also a good choice for exposed, windy positions. We can also recommend Dwarf Sensation Mixed for growing in large containers on a sunny patio.

Cosmos is a half-hardy annual, which flowers the same year as sowing. Originally from Mexico, it does best in a warm, sunny position on free-draining soils. Very fertile soils may promote foliage production at the expense of flowers.

Few half hardy annuals can match Cosmos (sometimes called Cosmea) when it comes to filling gaps in borders, where its ethereal, ferny foliage and large, elegant blooms are sure to turn heads. But cosmos is much more than just a ‘filler’! It makes a magnificent centrepiece to island beds and looks particularly striking when grown in large, informal drifts – especially when a summer breeze is rustling through the plants.

Sow indoors for surest results, February-April, 0.5cm (¼”) deep, in trays of compost. Water well and place in a warm position. A temperature of 15-20°C (60-68°F) is ideal. Keep moist. Seedlings usually appear in 14-21 days. Transplant seedlings, 5cm (2″) apart, to other trays when large enough to handle (always hold by a leaf, never by the stem). Grow on in cooler, but not cold conditions. Gradually accustom young plants to outside conditions (avoid frosts), before planting out into well-drained, light soil, May-June, 30cm (1′) apart, when frosts are over. Or, sow outdoors for ease, April-May, where they are to flower, 1.5cm (½”) deep, into finely-prepared, well-drained, light soil, which has already been watered. Thin seedlings to 30cm (1′) apart. Water well until plants are established. Flowers: June-October.

Tip: Remove dead heads regularly to prolong the flowering season.