Sea Shells Apricot

Cosmos

60d to harvest

Delicate as lace yet richly abundant, Sea Shells Apricot blooms in warm apricot-orange petals that curl and overlap like tiny seashells, catching the light with a soft, glowing shimmer. The airy, feathery foliage frames each flower head on sturdy stems, creating a graceful, long-lasting cut-flower presence with a gentle, honeyed allure for pollinators. Grow this annual for a breezy, sunlit display that turns beds and borders into a moving bouquet—ideal for fresh arrangements and effortless garden charm.

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	May 8th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	May 8th
Harvest Begins	Jul 7th
Harvest Ends	Sep 30th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	60
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Surface
Germination Temp (°F)	70
Min Soil Temp (°F)	55
Min Night Temp (°F)	50
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Recommended Companions

Fireball Marigold

Oklahoma Mix Zinnia

Whirlybird Cream Nasturtium

Tip Top Apricot Nasturtium

Zahara Starlight Rose Zinnia

Moonsong Deep Orange Marigold

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I water Cosmos bipinnatus during the main growing phase?

During active growth (roughly weeks after seedlings establish through the first flush of blooms), water deeply about 1–2 times per week, letting the top 1–2 inches of soil dry between waterings. Cosmos tolerate short dry spells, so don’t keep soil constantly wet—overwatering increases disease risk and can reduce flowering. In hot weather, you may need more frequent deep watering, but only if the soil surface has dried.

How can I tell when Cosmos bipinnatus is ready to harvest?

Harvest when the flowers have fully opened and the petals are still fresh and crisp—cosmos typically reaches this stage about 60 days from sowing. For seed, wait until flower heads are dry and brown, then harvest the heads before they fully shed; rub gently to collect seeds. If harvesting for cut flowers, pick blooms in the morning and remove spent heads to encourage more flowering.