Cosmos Apricotta is an annual flower, admired for its unique color palette and generous bloom production. This variety offers a captivating display, making it a popular choice for gardeners. This guide covers cultivating and enjoying this plant.
Characteristics of Cosmos Apricotta
Cosmos Apricotta exhibits a unique, shifting color. Young flowers begin with a warm tangerine or pale apricot hue, often featuring a soft rosy center. As the blooms mature, their rose coloring becomes more pronounced, creating an iridescent quality. These single, daisy-like flowers measure approximately 3 inches (8 cm) across and are borne on sturdy, upright stems.
As an annual, Cosmos Apricotta completes its life cycle within one growing season. It typically reaches a height of 36 to 42 inches (90 to 107 cm). The plant forms a bushy, upright habit with finely-divided, feathery foliage. This variety blooms continuously from midsummer until the first hard frost, providing extended garden color.
Growing Cosmos Apricotta
Site Selection and Soil
Cosmos Apricotta thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. While it prefers full sun for optimal blooms, it can tolerate partial shade, though flowering may be less abundant. The plant performs best in average, well-drained soils that are moderately fertile, with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.
Cosmos Apricotta tolerates dry soils. Overly rich soil can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers, so avoid heavily enriching the soil with organic materials. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, incorporating organic matter like compost can improve drainage. Proper drainage is important, as cosmos plants do not thrive in waterlogged conditions.
Planting Seeds
Cosmos Apricotta seeds can be started indoors or direct-sown outdoors. For indoor starting, sow seeds 4 to 6 weeks before the average last frost date. Plant seeds approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.3 cm) deep in a good seed-starting mix. Germination typically occurs within 5-10 days when soil temperatures are between 60-85°F (16-29°C).
After the danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature is consistently above 60°F (16°C), seeds can be direct-sown into the garden. Space seeds about 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) apart, or in groups of three every 12 inches (30 cm). Once seedlings are 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) tall, thin them to a final spacing of 9-12 inches (23-30 cm) apart. Pinching the growing tip when plants are 8-12 inches tall can encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Watering
Cosmos Apricotta requires regular watering when young to establish a robust root system. Once established, these plants are relatively drought-tolerant. Water deeply, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot and other disease issues.
Fertilizing
Cosmos Apricotta plants are not heavy feeders and generally do not require much fertilization. Too much nitrogen can promote lush, leafy growth at the expense of flower production. If the plants appear to be struggling, a light application of a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer or one higher in phosphorus can be applied. For container-grown cosmos, a small amount of fertilizer may be beneficial due to limited soil nutrients.
Deadheading and Support
Deadheading, the removal of spent flowers, is an important practice for Cosmos Apricotta to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. This redirects the plant’s energy from seed production to producing more flowers. To deadhead effectively, cut the spent bloom’s stem back to the first set of leaves or where another flower stem emerges.
For taller varieties of cosmos, including Apricotta, staking or other forms of support may be beneficial, especially in windy locations or areas prone to heavy rainfall. When planted in groups, cosmos can sometimes provide mutual support. Providing support helps prevent tall, slender stems from bending or breaking.
Enjoying Your Cosmos Apricotta
Cosmos Apricotta offers numerous ways to enhance a garden and home. The large, cupped blossoms make excellent cut flowers, bringing their warm apricot and pink hues indoors. For the longest vase life, harvest stems when the flower buds are just beginning to crack open or the petals are opening but not yet flattened. Changing vase water frequently helps to extend their freshness.
In garden design, Cosmos Apricotta is a versatile annual. Its height and bushy habit make it suitable for mixed beds, borders, and cottage gardens. They can also be grown in containers, adding vibrant color to patios and terraces. The showy blooms attract beneficial pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enriching the garden ecosystem.