Rubies Sunshine Mix Cosmos bipinnatus Seeds for planting for pollinator garden and border beds

Cosmos Seeds - Rubies Sunshine Mix

Overview
Cosmos Seeds - Rubies Sunshine Mix is a vibrant and cheerful blend of cosmos flowers that brings a burst of rich ruby-red and sunny yellow hues to your garden. This variety is perfect for gardeners who want to add a striking contrast of colors to flower beds, borders, or containers. The easy-to-grow, low-maintenance nature of these cosmos makes them a great choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners alike.

Key Benefits

• Vibrant Color Mix: A beautiful combination of ruby-red and yellow blooms that create a warm, welcoming atmosphere in your garden.
• Ideal for Flower Beds & Borders: The colorful mix is perfect for adding bold splashes of color to your outdoor spaces.
• Attracts Pollinators: Cosmos flowers are known for attracting bees and butterflies, making them a great choice for eco-friendly gardens.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care and grows well in full sun, making it a great option for gardeners of all levels.
• Versatile Growth: These cosmos thrive in a variety of growing conditions and can be used in a range of garden designs, from rustic cottage gardens to more formal flower beds.

Variety Features

• Plant Characteristics: Tall, sturdy plants with delicate, feathery foliage and vibrant flowers in shades of ruby red and bright yellow.
• Flower Size: The blooms range from 3 to 4 inches (7.5–10 cm) in diameter, creating a dramatic display when in full bloom.
• Growth Habit: Easy to grow, self-branching plants that require minimal care, producing multiple flowers per plant.
• Height: Typically grows 3–4 feet (0.9–1.2 meters) tall, making it perfect for filling spaces and creating focal points in the garden.

Planting Instructions

• Planting Season: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost date, or sow directly outdoors after the last frost. Ideal for warm-season gardening.
• 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 proper airflow and growth.
  • Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
  • Sunlight: Needs full sun for optimal growth and vibrant blooms.

Care Instructions

• Watering: Cosmos are drought-tolerant once established but benefit from regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply once a week.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again when the plants begin to bloom for optimal growth. Avoid excessive nitrogen.
• Weeding and Mulching: Keep the area around your cosmos free of weeds and apply mulch to retain moisture and keep the soil temperature stable.
• Pest and Disease Control: Generally resistant to pests but watch for aphids or sunflower beetles. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if needed. Ensure good air circulation to prevent powdery mildew.

Harvesting

• Maturity: Cosmos typically mature in 70–90 days, depending on growing conditions.
• Harvesting Method: Harvest when flowers are fully open but before they begin to wilt. Cut the stem at least 12 inches (30 cm) from the base for the longest-lasting blooms.
• Storage: Fresh flowers can be stored in a cool, dry place or refrigerated for up to a week.

Culinary Uses

• Edible Flowers: While not commonly eaten, the petals of cosmos flowers are edible and can be used as a garnish for salads or cakes.
• Bird Feed: Harvested seeds are great for feeding local wildlife, especially birds.

Conclusion
Cosmos Seeds - Rubies Sunshine Mix is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a bold splash of color and attract pollinators to their garden. With its low-maintenance, self-branching habit and vibrant red and yellow blooms, this variety will brighten any space and create a cheerful garden atmosphere. Whether used for cut flowers, floral arrangements, or as a striking garden centerpiece, this cosmos mix is sure to make a lasting impression.