Cosmos Tango – Bright Orange Blooms Loved by Bees
Cosmos Tango (Cosmos sulphureus) brings fiery shades of orange and red to borders and pots, flowering freely from midsummer until the frosts. Its semi-double daisy-like flowers are open and nectar-rich, making them a favourite with bumblebees and butterflies. Compact yet striking, it’s easy to grow and one of the first flowers Grown Local has raised seed from ourselves.
Growing Conditions
Cosmos Tango is a half-hardy annual. It needs a sunny position with free-draining soil to flower at its best, though it will tolerate partial shade. In the UK, it won’t survive frost, so sow indoors early or direct sow after the last frost for reliable summer colour.
Planting Guide
Sowing Indoors: March to April, in trays or modules at 18–21°C. Germination takes 7–14 days. Cover seeds lightly with compost.
Transplanting: Pot on seedlings when large enough to handle. Harden off and plant out once frosts have passed.
Direct Sowing: Late April to May into prepared soil, thinning to allow space to grow.
Spacing: 30 cm between plants for compact but well-spaced growth.
Care & Maintenance
Watering: Water regularly when young, but established plants prefer drier conditions.
Feeding: Avoid overfeeding—too much fertiliser leads to leaves at the expense of flowers.
Deadheading/Pruning: Regular deadheading encourages continuous flowering.
Support/Winter Care: Plants are naturally sturdy but may need light support in exposed sites. Treated as an annual in UK gardens.
Flowering & Cut Flower Tips
Flowers appear from June right up to the first frosts. For cut flowers, pick when the blooms are just opening for longest vase life. Cosmos Tango also dries well for longer-lasting arrangements.
Garden Impact
- Bold splashes of orange and red for borders, beds and pots.
- Highly attractive to bumblebees and butterflies.
- Compact habit makes it easy to place among other summer annuals.
- A reliable way to extend colour in the garden right into autumn.
