Cosmos Bipinnatus - Apricotta

55 Seeds

Cosmos bipinnatus 'Apricotta' is an attractive annual flowering plant known for its delicate, daisy-like blooms in soft shades of apricot, peach, and blush pink. Its finely divided, feathery green foliage and graceful stems give it a light, airy appearance, making it a lovely choice for flower beds, borders, and containers.

This variety thrives in sunny locations and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. It generally flowers from late spring through summer in suitable climates. In the Gulf region, it is best grown during the cooler months to avoid excessive heat, which can reduce flowering and affect plant growth.

Planting Instructions in the Gulf Area

1. Best Planting Time: Sow seeds from October to February, preferably during the cooler months. Avoid sowing during the hottest part of the year.

2. Location: Choose a sunny location receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In warmer weather, some afternoon shade can help protect young plants.

3. Soil: Use light, well-draining soil enriched with a little organic matter. Avoid overly rich soil, as excessive nutrients may encourage leafy growth instead of flowers.

4. Sowing: Sow seeds approximately 5–6 mm deep, spacing them around 20–30 cm apart. Seeds can be started in small pots or sown directly into the garden.

5. Watering: Keep the soil lightly moist until germination. Once established, water when the top layer of soil begins to dry. Avoid waterlogging.

6. Germination: Seeds usually germinate within 7–14 days under suitable conditions, with temperatures around 18–24°C.

7. Fertilizing: Apply a light, balanced fertilizer if needed. Avoid frequent feeding or high-nitrogen fertilizers, as these may reduce flowering.

8. Maintenance: Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Provide enough space and airflow to reduce the risk of fungal problems.

9. Heat Protection: As temperatures rise in spring, protect plants from intense afternoon heat and maintain consistent watering without keeping the soil soggy.

10. Flowering: Plants generally begin flowering around 8–12 weeks after sowing, depending on growing conditions. They can produce flowers over an extended period when grown in suitable weather.