50 Pack of Bright Lights Cosmo Seeds

Basic Plant Profile

• Botanical name: Cosmos sulphureus

• Common name: Bright Lights Cosmos

• Type: Annual

• Height: 2–4 ft (60–120 cm)

• Spread: 12–24 in (30–60 cm)

• Bloom time: Mid-summer to frost

• Pollinators: Bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects

Light Requirements

• Full sun (6+ hours per day) is essential for strong stems and abundant blooms.

• Can tolerate partial sun but will become leggy and bloom less.

Climate & Temperature

• Thrives in warm weather; heat-tolerant.

• Performs in USDA zones 2–11 as a summer annual.

• Seeds germinate well when soil is 65–75°F (18–24°C).

Soil Requirements

• Prefers poor to average, well-drained soil.

• Avoid rich soil—too much fertility makes tall, floppy plants with fewer flowers.

• pH: 6.0–7.0 (but very tolerant).

Watering

• Drought-tolerant once established.

• Water regularly for the first weeks, then reduce frequency.

• Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Sowing & Planting - Direct Sowing (recommended)

• Sow outdoors after frost danger has passed.

• Cover seeds lightly—about ¼ inch (6 mm).

• Germination: 7–14 days.

• Spacing: 6 - 12 in apart for airflow and sturdier growth.

Care & Maintenance

• Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming.

• Stake tall plants if your site is windy.

• Do not fertilize—this reduces flowering.

Harvesting for Cut Flowers

• Cut stems when the flowers are just opening.

• Place in water immediately.

• Cosmos last 5–7 days in a vase.

Saving Seeds

• Let some blooms dry on the stem until seed heads turn brown.

• Collect seeds and store dry; they self-seed readily in the garden.