Picture ©Thompson & Morgan

Cosmos sulphureus 'Polidor'

Description: A bright, striking mixture of orange, lemon and red shades. The semi-double flowers, of medium size, are borne on bushy plants of fresh, fern-like foliage. Earlier to bloom than many other Cosmos.
Sowing: Germinate from March to May at 18-20C (64-68F) on the surface of a good free draining, damp seed compost. Apply a layer of compost or vermiculite, 3mm (1/8in) deep. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag until after germination which usually takes 5-10 days. Do not exclude light, as this helps germination.
Growing: Transplant seedlings, when large enough to handle into 7.5cm (3in) pots. Grow on in cooler conditions for at least 10-15 days before planting out. Plant outside after all risk of frost, 30cm (12in) apart.

This plant can be found in:
Petal F