What is the planting method for cosmos seedlings?
Let's share the knowledge about the planting method for cosmos seedlings and the tips for sowing cosmos seeds. Let's take a look together!
Cosmos is scientifically known as "Cosmos bipinnatus" and is originally distributed in the Mexico region of the Americas. It is widely cultivated in areas such as Yunnan and Sichuan in China. Cosmos generally grows on ridges or along streams, offering both ornamental value and medicinal properties for clearing heat and detoxifying. Let's delve into the planting methods of cosmos from aspects such as planting time, soil conditions, and plant maintenance.
1. Planting Time
If you want cosmos to bloom in summer, the planting time is usually February to March every year during early spring when the temperature and light are very suitable for cosmos growth. If it is planted outdoors, the planting time should be in April every year. For autumn blooming, the planting time is in July to August. The planting time of cosmos varies according to different needs.
2. Soil Conditions
Cosmos thrives in fertile, loose soil that contains organic matter. Before sowing, some decomposed organic fertilizer can be added to the soil to increase fertility and promote plant growth. Mix cosmos seeds with sandy soil, sprinkle them on the seedbed, and cover them with a thin layer of soil about 1 centimeter thick. Maintain the temperature at around 18℃ and keep the soil slightly moist.
3. Plant Maintenance
About 20-30 days after sowing, cosmos will take root and sprout. When the seedlings have 4-5 true leaves, they can be transplanted into pots and pinched to promote blooming. Cosmos has large flower shapes, so multiple pinching is required during growth to encourage branching and flowering, and to prevent plant dwarfing. During maintenance, provide the plants with ample light and water, but be careful to control the amount of watering to avoid waterlogging and root rot. No additional fertilization is needed during the growing period, as it may cause excessive vegetative growth and affect blooming.
The comprehensive knowledge shared above about the planting method for cosmos seedlings and the tips for sowing cosmos seeds is hoped to be helpful to you.