Dharaseeds
Cosmos Seeds - Versailles Tetra Red
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
Cosmos Seeds - Versailles Tetra Red
Overview
Cosmos Seeds - Versailles Tetra Red is a stunning variety of cosmos, known for its unique, vibrant red blooms with a distinctive tetra-petal shape. This hardy and easy-to-grow variety adds a dramatic touch to any garden, with its eye-catching color and beautiful, long-lasting flowers. Perfect for flower beds, borders, and cut flower arrangements, Versailles Tetra Red will stand out in both your garden and bouquets.
Key Benefits
- Vibrant Red Blooms: Featuring striking red flowers with a unique tetra-petal structure, this variety brings bold color and elegance to your garden.
- Ideal for Cut Flowers: The strong, straight stems and long-lasting blooms make it perfect for floral arrangements and bouquets.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and care for, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
- High Yield: Produces an abundance of stunning flowers on tall, sturdy plants, ensuring a full, vibrant garden display.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees and butterflies, supporting a healthy garden ecosystem.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Tall plants with vibrant red, tetra-petaled blooms on long, sturdy stems.
- Flower Size: Large flowers, 4–6 inches (10–15 cm) in diameter, with a unique petal formation.
- Growth Habit: Produces multiple blooms per plant, making it perfect for dense, colorful garden displays.
- Height: Typically grows 3–4 feet (90–120 cm) tall, depending on growing conditions.
Planting Instructions
Planting Season:
Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly outdoors after the last frost date. Ideal for warm-season gardening, growing best in temperatures between 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C).
Planting Details:
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) deep.
- Spacing: Space seeds or plants 12–18 inches apart in rows or clusters.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
- Sunlight: Needs full sun for optimal growth and bloom production.
Care Instructions
Watering:
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Cosmos are drought-tolerant but thrive with consistent moisture, particularly during blooming. Water deeply once a week or more often in hot, dry conditions.
Fertilization:
Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) during planting and once the plants start to bloom. Avoid excessive nitrogen to prevent excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Weeding and Mulching:
Keep the area around cosmos plants free from weeds to avoid competition for nutrients. Apply mulch to retain moisture and control weeds.
Pest and Disease Control:
Cosmos are relatively pest-resistant, though watch for aphids and leaf spot. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed. Ensure proper spacing for good air circulation to avoid diseases like powdery mildew.
Harvesting
Maturity:
Versailles Tetra Red cosmos flowers typically mature in 70–80 days from planting, depending on growing conditions.
Harvesting Method:
Harvest when flowers are fully open but before petals start to wilt. Cut the stems at least 12 inches (30 cm) from the base of the flower to ensure the longest-lasting blooms.
Storage:
Freshly cut flowers can be stored in a cool, dry place or refrigerated for up to a week for maximum freshness.
Culinary Uses
Edible Flowers:
Like all cosmos varieties, the flowers are edible and can be used as a colorful garnish in salads or desserts. Their slightly spicy flavor adds an interesting twist to culinary creations.
Bird Feed:
Harvested seeds can be used to feed local wildlife, providing a natural food source for birds.
Conclusion
Cosmos Seeds - Versailles Tetra Red is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking vibrant, unique blooms with minimal effort. Whether used for garden displays, cut flowers, or attracting pollinators, this striking variety delivers beauty, color, and resilience. Its easy care and high yield make it perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners alike. Add this stunning variety to your garden for an unforgettable floral show.