Cosmos Cupcake: this floral variety captivates with its unique resemblance to delicate fluted cupcake wrappers, infusing a playful charm into your outdoor space. Boasting an impressive display akin to the ‘Double Click’ series, these blooms are distinguished by their lightweight structure, proudly perched atop robust stems. Adding to their whimsical beauty, a select few flowers feature charming, tufted centers, making a captivating addition to any garden.
Cosmos Cupcake are delicately fragrant cut flowers and are perfect for cottage gardens.
Pure white flowers with strong stems.
Cosmos has a photoperiod- starts seed indoors 10 -12 weeks prior to our last anticipated frost date for Northern latitude growers.
Roughly 20 seeds per packet
For garden tips: https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/category/alaska-seed-company/
Alaska Gardening: https://seedsandsoilorganics.com/category/alaska-gardening/
Cosmos, with their vibrant blooms and feathery foliage, are a garden enthusiast’s delight, offering a blend of simplicity and beauty. Originating from Mexico, these annuals thrive in a variety of climates, embodying adaptability and ease of care. To grow cosmos, begin by selecting a site with well-draining soil and ample sunlight; these flowers bask in full sun, needing at least six hours of direct light daily.
Planting cosmos seeds directly into the garden after the last frost is ideal for warmer climates, as they are not fond of being transplanted. Sow the seeds shallowly, about 1/4 inch deep, and water them gently. These hardy plants don’t require rich soil; in fact, too fertile soil can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms.
Once established, cosmos are relatively low-maintenance. They are drought-tolerant, requiring only moderate watering. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, can encourage more blooms, but leaving some can yield attractive seed pods and self-seeding for future growth.
Cosmos are not only visually appealing but also attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, making them an excellent choice for eco-friendly gardens. With their easy-going nature and stunning display, cosmos are a perfect addition to any garden, from novice to experienced green thumbs.
Growing Cosmos Flowers Indoors
Materials Needed:
- Cosmos seeds
- Seed trays or small pots
- Seed starting mix
- Grow lights or a sunny windowsill
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare Containers: Fill seed trays or pots with a well-draining seed starting mix.
- Sow the Seeds: Plant cosmos seeds about 1/4 inch deep in the soil. Space them about 1 inch apart.
- Watering: Water the soil lightly to ensure it is moist but not waterlogged.
- Light: Place the seed trays or pots under grow lights or in a sunny windowsill where they can receive at least 6-8 hours of light daily.
- Germination: Cosmos seeds typically germinate within 7-14 days. Maintain a temperature of around 70°F (21°C) for optimal germination.
- Thinning: Once seedlings are about 2 inches tall, thin them to one plant per pot or space them 12-18 inches apart in larger trays.
- Transplanting: When seedlings are about 4-6 inches tall and after the last frost date, they can be transplanted outdoors.
Harvesting Cosmos as Cut Flowers
Timing: Harvest cosmos flowers when they are fully open for the longest vase life. Early morning is the best time to cut flowers, as they are most hydrated.
Steps to Harvest:
- Select Stems: Choose stems with flowers that have just fully opened. Avoid cutting flowers that are still in bud or overly mature.
- Cutting: Use clean, sharp scissors or garden shears. Cut the stem at an angle to increase water uptake.
- Stripping Leaves: Remove any leaves that will be below the waterline in your vase to prevent rot.
- Conditioning: Immediately place cut stems in a bucket of water. Allow them to condition for a few hours before arranging them in a vase.
- Arranging: Arrange cosmos flowers with other blooms or foliage for a beautiful bouquet. Change the water daily and recut the stems every few days to prolong their freshness.
Tips for Growing and Harvesting Cosmos
- Succession Planting: Sow seeds every 2-3 weeks for continuous blooms throughout the growing season.
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- Staking: Tall varieties may require staking to prevent them from toppling over in strong winds.
By following these guidelines, you’ll enjoy a vibrant display of cosmos flowers in your garden and beautiful cut flowers for your home. Happy gardening!