Orange cosmos is a vibrant summer annual that brings a touch of vivid colour and movement to the garden. With its intense orange flowers borne on slender, elegant stems, it floats above light, finely cut foliage, creating an airy and graceful effect. These flowers strongly attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens and cut flowers. Its long-lasting blooms make beautiful bouquets, and the plant grows easily even in dry conditions with little maintenance.

Where can you grow orange cosmos?
Orange cosmos is well-suited to zones 3 to 9 and thrives in full sun in well-drained soil. It is ideal for flower beds, borders, containers, or naturalized areas where colour and pollinators are desired.

History and historical uses
Native to Mexico and Central America, Cosmos sulphureus has long been valued for its vibrant colours and ease of cultivation. Grown in cottage gardens, wildflower meadows, and floral farms for generations, its popularity stems from its great adaptability and beauty. It is primarily ornamental and not used for culinary or medicinal purposes.

Canadian Zone Information
Zones 8–9: Direct sow after the last frost or sow indoors for earlier blooms.
Zones 5–7: Sow indoors 4–6 weeks before the last frost; transplant once the risk of frost has passed.
Zones 3–4: Indoor sowing recommended, then transplant after all risk of frost has disappeared.

How to grow and harvest orange cosmos

Planting: Sow seeds 6 mm (¼ in) deep and space plants 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in) apart.
Watering: Drought tolerant once established; water regularly until rooted.
Harvesting: Cut stems early in the morning when flowers begin to open for best vase life.
Maintenance: Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming or allow the plant to self-seed naturally.

Seed saving tips for future supply
Flower maturation: Allow some flowers to dry completely and produce seeds.
Seed harvesting: Harvest dry seed heads before they disperse.
Cleaning and drying: Remove debris and allow to air dry completely.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in a labelled envelope or jar; viable for up to 3 years.

Certified Organic by
Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)