• Charming picotee cosmos with dark pink-edged petals Charmant cosmos picotee avec des pétales sombres à bords roses
  • Delicate picotee cosmos blossom in the garden Délicate picotee cosmos fleurissent dans le jardin
  • Beautiful picotee cosmos flower in bloom Belle fleur de cosmos picotee en fleurs
  • Elegant picotee cosmos flower in full bloom Élégante fleur de cosmos picotee en pleine floraison
  • Vibrant picotee cosmos adds beauty to the landscape Vibrant picotee cosmos ajoute de la beauté au paysage
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JNB Seed

Picotee Cosmos Seeds

Picotee Cosmos Seeds

$3.99 CAD
$3.99 CAD
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This stunning variety showcases elegant white blossoms delicately outlined with hues ranging from rosy pink to magenta, presenting a unique specialty within the Cosmos genus. Despite its sophisticated appearance, this Cosmos variety requires minimal care and attention to thrive, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. As an annual plant, it offers ease of cultivation and serves as an ideal introductory option for those new to gardening from seeds.

Originating from Mexico, these vibrant annuals have evolved to thrive in high temperatures and withstand drought conditions with remarkable resilience. Discovered by Spanish explorers during their quest for gold in Mexico, these flowers adorned the gardens of missions, earning them the name "cosmos" from priests, derived from the Greek term signifying harmony and unity, reflecting the orderly arrangement of their petals. Introduced to England by Spanish envoys in the late 18th century, and later to the United States in the subsequent century, Cosmos flowers have captivated gardeners across continents with their enchanting beauty.

These cosmos flowers are particularly adept at acclimating to diverse environmental conditions, reflecting their robust Mexican heritage. Their adaptability makes them a valuable addition to any garden, thriving in various climates and soil types. With their rich historical significance and enduring popularity among gardeners worldwide, cosmos flowers continue to enchant with their graceful appearance and effortless charm.

How To Grow

Sowing: In early spring or after the last frost, scatter the seeds on the surface of loose soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until germination, which should take place within 10-20 days at soil temperatures from 18-24 degrees Celsius. Cooler soil temperatures may delay germination. Seedlings do not need to be thinned, but can be transplanted if they appear too crowded. Since these seeds germinate quickly in warm soil, they can be sown at any time before midsummer for another crop of flowers. To start the seed indoors, sow on the surface of a flat 6-8 weeks before the last frost of spring; keep the soil evenly moist and at a temperature of 21-24 degrees Celsius until germination. When there is no chance of frost, transplant them outdoors.

Growing: Water these plants regularly until they begin to bloom; at this point they become quite drought tolerant. This flower must not be over-watered, and grows well in drought conditions and heat; if prolonged drought occurs, give the plants occasional deep watering. If blooming begins to decrease, cut the plant back to 30 centimeters for new growth; more blossoms will come in about 4 weeks. Tall plants may need support or staking. If allowed to self-seed, this flower will produce a new crop of flowers next year. This flower attracts birds, butterflies, and bees.

Harvesting

Cosmos blossoms make lovely, long-lasting cut flowers. Cut long stems of blossoms that have just opened, and remove any foliage that will fall below the water level. These flowers usually have a vase life of 7-10 days. Cosmos blossoms also make attractive dried flowers.

Seed Saving

Allow the flowers to drop their petals and develop into spiky seed heads. When ripe, the heads will be brown or dark brown and easily broken apart to reveal the narrow, sharp seeds. Remove the ripe seed heads and spread them out to dry away from direct sunlight. When they have completely dried, break apart the heads to separate the seeds from the husk. Store the cleaned seed in a cool, dry place.

Extra Facts

Latin Name: Cosmos bipinnatus

Species Origin: Mexico

Type: Garden Flowers

Life Cycle: Annual

USDA Zones: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

US Regions: California, Mountain, Arid/Desert, Plains/Texas, Midwest, Northern, Northeast, Southeast

Sunlight: Full Sun

Height: 122 centimeters

Color: White, Pink

Bloom Season: Blooms Early Summer, Blooms Late Summer, Blooms Early Fall

Uses: Cut Flowers

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