Cosmos are renowned for their profusion of blooms from late spring until fall, and they are especially lovely when grown closely together to create a backdrop in the garden. These lovely flowers are also attractive to birds, butterflies and beneficial insects. They are considered to be an easy annual to grow for beginner gardeners, and they make great cut flowers too.

Sow Cosmos flower seeds directly outdoors once frost danger has passed.

Cosmos plants thrive in full sun and will tolerate some shade. The soil can be poor but good drainage is needed.

• Work the soil to a depth of 8 - 10 inches
• Add compost to improve the soil
• Rake the soil smooth and scatter the Cosmos seeds
• Lightly rake the soil over the seeds
• Keep the area continually moist for germination
• Early pinching of the seedlings will promote branching and improve the density of the plant

• Irrigate deeply but only when the soil dries out
• Deadheading will encourage continued blooming
• The plants can be cut back to 12 - 18 inches and they will rebloom in about 30 days
• Cosmos are known to self-sow