Illuminate Your Garden with Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Double Click Snow Puff’
Cosmos bipinnatus ‘Double Click Snow Puff’ is a captivating annual that brings elegance to any garden. Its pristine white, double blooms, some with a faint blush of pink, resemble delicate pom-poms. These daisy-like flowers measure up to 7 cm (3 inches) across and are carried on tall, sturdy stems with fine, fern-like foliage. Reaching heights of up to 1.2 metres (47 inches), ‘Double Click Snow Puff’ is perfect for borders, large containers, and cutting gardens, offering a long-lasting display from early summer to the first frosts.
Growing Conditions
This cosmos thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. It tolerates drought once established and performs best in locations with good air circulation to prevent disease. As a half-hardy annual, it is sensitive to frost, so sowing and planting must be timed to avoid exposure to cold temperatures.
Planting Guide
- Sowing Indoors: Sow seeds indoors from March to May at a depth of 3 mm (⅛ inch) in quality seed compost. Cover seeds with a fine sprinkling of vermiculite and maintain a temperature of 20–25°C (68–77°F). Germination typically occurs within 7–14 days.
- Transplanting: When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots. Gradually acclimatise plants to outdoor conditions over 7–10 days before planting out after the last frost.
- Direct Sowing: Sow seeds directly outdoors in their flowering position after the risk of frost has passed. Thin seedlings to achieve a final spacing of 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart.
Care & Maintenance
- Watering: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as cosmos prefer drier conditions once established.
- Feeding: Feeding is generally unnecessary, as rich soils can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season.
Flowering & Cut Flower Tips
‘Double Click Snow Puff’ blooms from July to October, providing an extended display. Its pure white, double blooms and long stems make it an ideal choice for cut flower arrangements. For the best vase life, harvest flowers when they are fully open, preferably in the morning when temperatures are cooler.
Garden Impact
This variety attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, helping to enhance garden biodiversity. Its elegant blooms add sophistication to borders and containers, and it pairs beautifully with other summer flowers like zinnias and marigolds for vibrant displays.
