Growing Cosmos Cosmic Orange Flowers in Containers

Overview

Cosmos is a bushy, flowering plant, native to Mexico, that does well in a variety of situations, from the garden to the pot. Usually planted in masses, the cosmic orange variety will grow to a height of 20 inches and bloom with large, blazing orange flowers. Not only is this plant heat- and drought-tolerant, but it's a butterfly magnet as well, which makes planting and growing it the perfect first-garden project for a child. Cosmos cosmic orange is hardy to all USDA zones.

Step 1

Pour the potting soil, or even some soil from your garden, into the pot. The type and texture of the soil is not important to this plant, as it will thrive in even the worst conditions.

Step 2

Water the soil well, and allow it to drain from the bottom of the pot.

Step 3

Sprinkle the cosmos cosmic orange seeds over the surface of the soil and use your fingers to lightly rake them in. Just pass your fingers lightly over the surface of the soil one time.

Step 4

Place the pot in an area that will get lots of sunshine. Germination of the seeds should occur within one week to 10 days and the plants will flower within 8 to 10 weeks of seeding.

Step 5

Water the cosmos only on particularly hot days, or if it starts to wilt. Do not fertilize the cosmos, as this will prohibit the plant's ability to bloom.

Step 6

Prune the cosmos by pinching off dead or dying flowers. This will encourage the plant to put forth new blooms.