Seeds - Cosmos, Diablo (F)
$4.99
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Description: Scarlet-orange blooms pepper the garden with intense colour! Native to Mexico, these easy-to-grow edible heirloom flowers were introduced into English horticulture in the 18th century. The flowers are long-lasting in cut-flower bouquets. Cosmos require little fertility or care, making them great for beginner gardeners. Cosmos sulphureus is also known as Keniker in Asia, where the stems, leaves and flowers are a nutritious vegetable. ‘Diablo’ was an AAS winner in 1974.
Pack Size: 50 seeds
Latin Name: Cosmos sulphureus
Alternative Names: Also know as Keniker, an Indonesian herb and edible flower.
Main Uses: Ornamental, culinary
Zone Hardiness: Annual (reseeding)
Exposure: Full sun
Height: 90 - 120 cm (36 - 48 inches)
Flower Color: orange-red petals
Flowering Time: July to August
Certified Organic: USDA Certified Organic
Germination: 7 - 10 days at 21ºC.
Indoors: 2 seeds per plug 2 - 4 weeks before last frost date.
Planting out: Plant in loose, fertile soil once all chance of frost has passed.
Direct Seeding: Once the risk of frost has passed and the soil is at least 18ºC.
Planting depth: 1/4 "
Spacing: Sow seeds every 3” and thin to 9 - 12”. Space rows 18” apart.
Growing in Containers: Grows very well in larger containers and raised beds.
Growing in Mixed Planters: Well-suited for larger mixed planters.
Fertilizing (Containers): Plant in a quality, well-draining organic-based potting mix. Feed regularly with organic fertilizer. An organic bloom-booster fertilizer at the first onset of buds will encourage larger blooms and more abundant flowering.
Watering (Containers): Water containers deeply when top inch feels dry to the touch. Monitor pots every day or two during very hot weather.
Fertilizing (Garden): Plant in average garden soil, amended with compost on an annual basis. No additional fertilizing required. Cosmos have fairly low fertility requirements.
Watering (Garden): Water deeply to establish. Water mature plants weekly during hot weather.
Beneficials Attracted to this Plant: Lacewings, hoverflies, and parasitic wasps are all very active pest controls, and are attracted by this type of Cosmos!
Notes: Deadhead flowers to ensure constant blooms. Encourage cosmos to reseed year to year by letting flowers go to seed and leaving heads on plants.
Suitability for Indoors: Not suited for indoors.
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