How to Cultivate and Care for Cosmos?
This article shares some small life experiences on how to cultivate cosmos, including techniques, as well as the flowers' meanings and symbolism related to flower cultivation. Next, the editor will introduce to netizens.
Cosmos flowers come in a variety of colors and are quite appreciateable, making them one of the very popular planting varieties in the flower market in recent years. So, how to plant cosmos? What are the planting time and methods for cosmos?
First, When is the Best Time to Plant Cosmos?
The planting time for cosmos depends on the chosen propagation method. Generally, cosmos can be propagated by both seeding and cutting.
1. Cosmos Seed Propagation Time
If choosing to propagate cosmos through seeding, you can opt for spring and autumn sowing. Spring sowing can be done from the end of February to mid-to-late March. The first flowers usually bloom in May to June, and the second bloom opens around the time of frost. In summer, due to the high temperatures, flowering is reduced.
Autumn sowing can be done after the beginning of autumn, and flowers can bloom approximately 2-3 months after planting.
2. Cosmos Cutting Propagation Time
Considering the survival rate of cosmos cuttings, the best cutting time is usually around April every year. Select the tender branches of cosmos for cutting, and with proper management, they can root in about half a month.
Second, How to Plant Cosmos? What are the Planting Methods?
1. Growth Habits of Cosmos
To plant cosmos well, you first need to understand its growth habits.
In simple terms, the growth habits of cosmos are: "prefers sunlight, loose soil, dislikes积水 and overly fertile soil."
2. Cosmos Planting Methods
(1) Prepare the Planting Soil or Plot
Cosmos can be grown in pots or outdoors. It is recommended to sun-dry the soil before sowing or cutting to prevent diseases and pests.
After sun-drying, apply a small amount of flower fertilizer to the soil, water it to keep it moist, and place it in a shaded and ventilated area.
Then, you can choose to plant cosmos by sowing or cutting.
(2) Cultivation Management
After planting cosmos, if seeded, when the seedlings are about 5 cm tall, they should be transplanted, watering once a day at this stage, not too much each time, just keeping the soil moist.
Do not fertilize frequently, as slightly poor soil is more conducive to the growth and flowering of cosmos.
Finally, prevent and control diseases and pests. The main thing to fear when planting cosmos is aphids, so it is essential to ensure good ventilation and sunlight in the growing environment. If aphids appear, you can spray with dishwashing liquid diluted at a ratio of 1:100 with water, twice a day.
(3) Flowering Care
During the blooming period of cosmos, the main tasks are to ensure they get plenty of sun and to keep the soil loose and not waterlogged. In summer, avoid direct sunlight and move them to a spot with diffused light.
Overall, the planting method for cosmos is relatively simple and does not require special care and management, making it suitable for those who enjoy flower cultivation but are quite busy. Interested friends can take immediate action and try planting a pot of cosmos!
The aforementioned explanation on how to cultivate and care for cosmos and understanding the flowers' meanings and symbolism is hoped to bring a little help to your life!