Cosmos bipinnatus 'Apricota'
cosmos
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- Seed Packets (only) £2.95
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil, or general-purpose potting mix for containers
- Rate of growth: average to fast
- Flowering period: June to October
- Hardiness: half hardy annual
A stunning, almost ‘iridescent’ half-hardy annual. 'Apricota' is an upright, bushy variety, with very finely-divided foliage from branching stems that bear very pale orange flowers, flushed pink at the base. The blooms fade to cream, with a yellow eye. Deadheaded regularly, this plant really keeps it’s ‘fizz’ throughout the summer, providing a regular supply of glamorous colour for both the cut flower vase and the border.
Pot on and grow on in a well-lit and ventilated frost free environment (such as a greenhouse, coldframe or conservatory). Plant out after all risk of frost has passed. Pinch out the growing tips to encourage bushier growth, and feed at regular intervals throughout summer with a high-potash fertiliser. Taller plants may need supporting with brushwood stems in exposed positions.
In early spring, sow seed shallowly in seed trays and keep under glass, transplanting them into individual pots when large enough to handle. Harden off before planting outside after the frosts. Alternatively, sow in-situ in mid- to late spring in a well-prepared bed and thin the seedlings out as they grow to allow approximately 30cm between each.