Cosmos are a versatile flush that can be either transplanted or direct sown , depending on your taste and circumstances . However , when it comes to transplanting world , there are a few important element to consider to ensure their success .

first of all , it is all-important to time your transplanting properly . Cosmos should only be started as transplanting about 3 - 4 week before you plan to found them outside . start them too early can ensue in great , old transplants that may become “ root resile . ” This means that the roots become tightly packed and drag within the container , which can handicap their increment and overall vigor .

To quash this , it ’s best to start cosmos semen in single pots or trays with adept drainage . This allows for proper root development and prevents overcrowding . When the seedling have reach a tallness of about 3 - 4 inches and have developed a few circle of truthful leave , they are quick to be transfer .

When transplanting cosmea , it ’s crucial to handle the seedlings with care to nullify damaging their delicate roots . Gently loosen the grunge around the seedling and get up it out , take care to keep the root musket ball inviolate . If the roots have become tangled or twisted , you could carefully untangle them before planting .

Choose a sunny location in your garden for transplant cosmos . They thrive in full Dominicus and require at least 6 - 8 60 minutes of direct sunshine per Clarence Shepard Day Jr. . Prepare the filth by removing any weeds or dust and loosening it with a garden fork or cultivator . incorporated constitutional matter , such as compost or well - rotted manure , to improve the grease ’s fertility rate and drainage .

jab a hole that is slightly larger than the solution ball of the transplant . range the seedling in the hole and backfill with soil , gently firm it around the roots . Water the transplanted cosmos exhaustively after planting to get back the soil and guarantee near root - to - soil contact .

It ’s worth noting that while cosmos can tolerate some root disturbance , heavy , older transplants may struggle to recuperate and may be permanently stunted in their growth . Therefore , it ’s more often than not best to come out world as transplanting only a few weeks before constitute them outside .

If you prefer not to transplant cosmos , they can also be lineal sown into the garden . Sow the seeds directly into well - prepared soil after any peril of frost has passed . Space the seeds according to the packet instructions , typically about 6 - 12 inches apart , and overlay them softly with soil . Keep the soil consistently moist until the seed sprout , which usually takes around 7 - 14 days .

Cosmos can be successfully transpose if done at the ripe prison term and with proper care . Starting them as transplants about 3 - 4 weeks before planting outside ensures they are not rootle bound and allows for healthy outgrowth . However , verbatim sowing is also a workable option if you prefer to skip the transplantation physical process .

Caroline Bates