The flowers produce several seeds each and the seeds are easy to separate from the plant once they have dried.
Cosmos are stalk type plants with full foliage and generally produce orange, yellow, pink, red or white flowers. They will reach heights between four and six feet and bloom summer to fall. The vibrate daisy-like flowers add a splash of color to a front yard landscape or a backyard retreat.
When all of the petals have fallen off of the flower, cut it off of the plant. Make the cut on the stem as far down as possible without cutting off other flowers, flower buds or leaves. This will promote additional blooms.
After cutting the flower off of the plant, put it out to dry. It does not have to lie flat or in the sun necessarily. Several flowers can be put in a pail or bucket and left for several days to dry. The longer they are allowed to dry, the easier the seeds will come off.
As the seeds dry, they will turn black. The seeds are located in the center and will be inline with the stem. Grab the hair like ends of the seeds and gentle tug while holding the stem. If the seeds do not come out, gentle wiggle them back and forth until they come loose.
Place the seeds in an envelope. Remember to label the envelope and add planting directions for next year. Drawing or adding a photograph of the plant and flower can help when making future garden designs.
Store the envelope in a dry area.
Cosmos are ideal for cut flowers and work well as tall background. Plant seeds in exposed areas that allow the plant to receive full sun after the last frost. Seeds should be planted 18 inches apart and ¼ inch deep.
They can be started indoors five to seven weeks before the last frost but once the plant reaches 4 inches, it is time to transplant it.
According to Wildflower Information, Cosmos grow in USDA zones 3-10. They are ‚”native to desert areas, but can be grown successfully in all regions,” the Web site states.
Harvesting seeds from annual plants allow people to enjoy the beauty of their plant year after year. Many annuals will reseed themselves without any human effort buy by collecting seeds it will ensure the gardener a stock for the following year and allows additional seeds for othe areas in the garden.
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