Thompson & Morgan Cosmos bipinnatus Capriola - 30 Seeds

Start off in a seed tray indoors and plant out in borders. Fill a seed tray with good, free-draini...

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Product Information

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This guide is for beginner and experienced gardeners looking to add vibrant, two-tone flowers to their beds, borders, or large patio containers. The key benefit is easy-to-grow, long-lasting summer blooms. A caveat is that these are half-hardy annuals, requiring protection from frost. This product provides 30 seeds of Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Capriola’, known for its bright, two-tone flowers, making it a low-maintenance choice for a spectacular summer display.

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Model Part Number60228
BrandThompson & Morgan

Extended Product Information

FAQs

When should I sow Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Capriola’ seeds?

Sow seeds indoors from March to May. They can also be sown directly outdoors after the last frost, but starting indoors provides a head start.

What are the ideal growing conditions for Cosmos?

Cosmos thrive in full sun and prefer moist, well-drained soil. They are quite tolerant of various soil types but perform best with adequate sunlight.

How tall do these Cosmos grow?

Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Capriola’ can grow up to 120cm (47 inches) tall and spread up to 60cm (24 inches) wide.

Can I plant these in containers?

Yes, they are perfect for large patio containers as well as garden beds and borders.

How far apart should I space the plants?

Space the plants about 45cm (18 inches) apart to allow for their full growth and spread.

What does 'half-hardy annual' mean?

It means the plant can tolerate light frost but will be killed by hard freezes. It needs to be protected from frost or treated as an annual that is sown each year.

How do I encourage more flowers?

Pinching out the growing tip of each stem when you transplant them encourages the plant to branch out, resulting in more stems and therefore more flowers.

Troubleshooting

Seeds not germinating

Ensure consistent temperature (20-25°C), adequate moisture (damp but not wet), and do not exclude light. Check if seeds are still viable.

Seedlings are leggy or weak

Ensure seedlings are receiving enough light. Provide adequate airflow and avoid overwatering. Transplant into individual pots promptly when large enough to handle.

Plants not flowering

Confirm the plants are in full sun and have adequate water and nutrients. Pinching out the growing tips can encourage more blooms.

Pests on seedlings or plants

Inspect plants regularly for common pests like aphids. Use gentle methods such as a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap if necessary.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Produces beautiful, eye-catching two-tone flowers.
  • Relatively easy to cultivate, making it beginner-friendly.
  • Offers a long blooming season from summer onwards.
  • Adaptable for various garden settings like beds, borders, and containers.
  • Promotes increased flowering through simple pinching techniques.

Cons

  • Requires protection from frost as it is a half-hardy annual.
  • Needs a position of full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
  • Requires specific temperature ranges for germination indoors.
  • Seeds are supplied as a packet, quantity may vary based on sowing success.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Sowing Indoors:

  1. Fill a seed tray with good, free-draining, damp seed compost.
  2. Sow seeds on the surface and cover with a very fine sprinkling of vermiculite or sieved compost.
  3. Place the tray in a propagator or seal in a polythene bag.
  4. Maintain a temperature of 20-25°C (68-77°F) until germination, which typically takes 7-14 days. Do not exclude light.

Potting On & Hardening Off:

  1. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them individually into 7.5cm (3") pots or multi-cell trays.
  2. Grow them on in cooler conditions.
  3. Before planting outdoors, acclimatize plants to cooler conditions by placing them outside for a few hours daily for a few weeks.

Planting Outdoors:

  1. Plant out when all risk of frost has gone.
  2. Choose a position in full sun.
  3. Ensure the soil is moist and well-drained.
  4. Space plants approximately 45cm (18") apart.
  5. Pinch out the growing tip of each stem when transplanting to encourage branching and more flowers.

Care:

  • Keep soil consistently damp but not waterlogged.
  • Water regularly during dry periods.

Compatibility:

  • Suitable for beds, borders, and large patio containers.
  • Thrives in full sun.

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