Cosmos in Old Town

Sow seeds in trays or modules from 2nd January to 26th January, using 0.5 cm of fine compost. Keep them at 18–21 °C and just moist, not wet.

Move seedlings on when they are large enough to handle, from 28th January to 11th February. Pot them into small pots and keep them growing in a bright, frost-free place.

Acclimatise plants over 15 days before planting out, from 2nd February to 16th February. Put them outside in the daytime at first, then leave them out for longer each day so they do not check in cold weather.

Plant into free-draining soil from 2nd March to 19th March, spacing plants 30 cm apart. Water in thoroughly straight after planting and protect young plants from slugs and late cold snaps if needed.

Remove fading flowers regularly from 9th April to 10th December. This stops the plant setting seed too early and keeps it producing flowers until the autumn frosts. Tie in taller stems if the plants get blown about, and water during dry spells.