How to grow cosmos? These little tips you need to master

Cosmos is a common ornamental flower, found in major parks and scenic areas. It also has certain medicinal value, with the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying, so how do you grow cosmos? Let's take a look.

1. Planting time

The planting time of cosmos should be controlled according to the region, because the climate varies from region to region. For example, if planting in northern regions, open-air sowing should be carried out after Qingming Festival. After sowing, if temperature, moisture and other conditions are suitable, seedlings will generally emerge in about a week. By around July, they will bloom, and the flowering period can last two months. If you want to advance the flowering period of cosmos, under good climatic conditions, you can sow around February, and the flowering time will also be earlier.

2. Sowing tips

Cosmos has very strong growth ability, and the seeds do not need special treatment such as soaking to promote germination before sowing; the seedling emergence rate will still be very high. However, before sowing, sufficient base fertilizer should be applied, then the cosmos seeds should be evenly mixed with fine sand, and then broadcast on the soil. After the seeds are broadcast, a layer of fine soil should be appropriately covered over the seeds, with the soil cover thickness kept at about 1 cm; it should not be too thick. After sowing, pay attention to appropriate watering to keep the soil moist, providing sufficient moisture for seed germination.

3. Transplanting and planting out

If direct sowing is used, then there is no need to transplant. But if raising seedlings for transplanting, then we also need to do the transplanting work well. Generally, after the cosmos plants have grown 4-5 leaves, they can be transplanted. If direct sowing is used, then at this time thinning should be done well. When planting out, also pay attention to controlling the density; it should not be too dense, to avoid affecting flowering. After transplanting, reduce the amount of topdressing. If too much topdressing is applied, it will cause cosmos to grow excessively and reduce the flowering rate.

4. Planting management

During the growth of cosmos, pay attention to controlling the amount of water and fertilizer. Neither watering nor fertilizing should be excessive. If cosmos shows excessive growth, it will lead to a decrease in the flowering rate of cosmos and reduce its ornamental value. Then, during the growth of cosmos, pay attention to promptly removing the branches at the top center of the plant to promote the growth of branches, which can effectively improve the flowering rate and flower quality. Finally, do a good job in the prevention and control of pests and diseases, such as red spider mites, ensure field ventilation, and strengthen management.