Description

Cosmos ‘Sensation’ are tall-growing annuals to 150cm, 50cm wide. The long-lasting, open flowers attract beneficial insects. Cosmos make good cut flowers. Cosmos plants seed freely and prolifically. Because of their open flowers, cosmos are easily cross-pollinated so, although these seeds were collected from a plant bearing mauve flowers, they may not produce mauve flowers.
Cosmos like warm, sunny positions in the garden. Once established, they will survive in mild drought-like conditions, but prefer regular deep watering. Ensure the soil is well drained and rich with organic matter. Cosmos usually self-seed freely. Pinch out the growing tip of cosmos plants when they are about 30cm tall. This will make them produce side-shoots, making the plant bushier and encourage more flowers.
Cosmos are one of the easiest plants from which to collect seed. As the flowers die, they will produce round heads of black seeds. Cut them off and leave in a paper bag to dry for two weeks before cleaning and storing.