Dharaseeds
Cosmos Seeds - Cupcake Mix
Estimated delivery between February 04 and February 07.
Cosmos Seeds - Cupcake Mix
Overview
Cosmos Seeds - Cupcake Mix is a beautiful and vibrant blend of cosmos flowers in shades of pink, white, and lavender. Known for their delicate, ruffled petals, these flowers bring a charming, sweet touch to any garden or floral arrangement. Easy to grow and low maintenance, the Cupcake Mix thrives in full sun, making it a perfect addition to any flower bed, border, or container garden. These cosmos are ideal for beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
Key Benefits
- Charming Appearance: Features a soft, pastel palette of pink, white, and lavender flowers that add a touch of elegance to your garden.
- Ideal for Cut Flowers: The delicate, ruffled blooms make this variety perfect for floral arrangements, lasting well in vases.
- Low Maintenance: Easy to grow and care for, requiring minimal attention while still providing a beautiful display.
- Attracts Pollinators: Like all cosmos, this mix attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it perfect for pollinator gardens.
- Long Blooming Period: Produces abundant flowers throughout the growing season, ensuring long-lasting beauty.
Variety Features
- Plant Characteristics: Tall, sturdy plants with finely cut, feathery foliage and single, ruffled blooms on each stem.
- Flower Size: Flowers range from 3 to 5 inches (7–12 cm) in diameter, featuring soft pastel shades and a lovely ruffled texture.
- Growth Habit: Self-supporting plants that do not require staking. They thrive with minimal care and produce flowers all summer long.
- Height: Typically grows 3–4 feet (0.9–1.2 meters) 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. Cosmos thrive in warm weather, growing best in temperatures between 65°F–75°F (18°C–24°C).
Planting Details
- Seed Depth: Plant seeds about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) deep.
- Spacing: Space seeds or plants 12–18 inches apart to allow for optimal air circulation and growth.
- Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
- Sunlight: Needs full sun for optimal growth and abundant blooms.
Care Instructions
Watering
While cosmos are drought-tolerant once established, they benefit from regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply once a week or more often during very hot conditions.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at planting time and again when plants begin to bloom to encourage strong growth and vibrant flowers. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it may result in more foliage than blooms.
Weeding and Mulching
Weed regularly to prevent competition for nutrients, and mulch around the base to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth.
Pest and Disease Control
Cosmos are generally pest-resistant but can occasionally attract aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed. This variety is disease-resistant but may be susceptible to mildew in humid conditions. Ensure good air circulation by spacing plants properly.
Harvesting
- Maturity: Cosmos from the Cupcake Mix typically mature in 70–90 days, depending on growing conditions.
- Harvesting Method: Cut flowers in the early morning when blooms are fully open but before petals begin to wilt. Harvest stems at least 12 inches (30 cm) long for long-lasting flowers.
- Storage: Freshly cut flowers can be stored in a cool, dry place or refrigerated for up to a week.
Culinary Uses
While cosmos flowers are primarily ornamental, their petals are edible and can be used to decorate salads, desserts, or cakes. Some gardeners also use the seeds to attract birds.
Conclusion
Cosmos Seeds - Cupcake Mix is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a beautiful, easy-to-grow flower with vibrant, charming blooms. Whether used in flower beds, borders, or as cut flowers, the Cupcake Mix is sure to delight with its long-lasting, colorful display. Ideal for attracting pollinators, this mix adds elegance and joy to any garden.