Cosmos

Water: Medium

Fertilize: Every two weeks

General Information:  Sensation Cosmos are a garden classic with their fern like foliage and large, cheerful daisy shaped flowers. 

Sensation Cosmos are a popular choice among gardeners due to their vibrant colours and easy-to-grow nature. These annual flowers are native to Mexico and can thrive in a variety of climates, including Manitoba.

1. Choosing the Right Location

Sensation Cosmos requires full sun to thrive, so choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.

2. Preparing the Soil

Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds or debris. Sensation Cosmos prefers moderately fertile soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is heavy clay, consider adding organic matter such as compost to improve drainage. They do well in garden beds but would only thrive in the largest size of containers.

3. Watering and Maintenance

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once the plants are established, Sensation Cosmos are relatively drought-tolerant and only require watering during prolonged dry spells. 

Remove any weeds that compete with the plants for nutrients and water. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plants can help suppress weeds and retain moisture.

4. Fertilizing

Sensation Cosmos is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require heavy fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

5. Deadheading and Pruning

To encourage continuous blooming, deadhead the faded flowers regularly. This will redirect the plant's energy into producing new blooms. If the plants become leggy or overcrowded, you can also prune them back by one-third to maintain their shape and vigour.

6. Pests and Diseases

Sensation Cosmos are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for aphids, slugs, and snails, which can occasionally infest the plants. If necessary, use organic pest control methods.

7. Enjoying the Blooms

With proper care, your Sensation Cosmos plants will reward you with a profusion of colourful blooms from mid-summer until the first frost. These flowers make excellent cut flowers, so don't hesitate to bring some indoors to brighten up your home.