When to plant Cosmos in Reddick, FL
The best window to plant Cosmos in Reddick, is January 18–February 8, when soil warms to 50°F. Last frost typically hits February 15; first frost December 1.
When to Plant Cosmos in Reddick, FL
Cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus) is an airy, feathery-foliaged cottage garden annual from Mexico that thrives on neglect. It produces delicate daisy-like blooms in shades of pink, white, and magenta from midsummer until frost. Cosmos is a prolific self-sower — once established in a garden it often returns year after year without replanting. Excellent habitat plant for beneficial insects.
Reddick, Florida is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is February 15 and the first fall frost is December 1, giving you a growing season of approximately 289 days.
At an elevation of 244 feet, Marion County receives approximately 54.1 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly sand soil. Summer highs average 97°F, so Cosmos may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. Sandy soil warms quickly in spring — great for early planting — but Cosmos will need more frequent watering and organic matter to retain nutrients. Ample rainfall means less supplemental watering, but ensure good drainage to prevent Cosmos root diseases.
Reddick Soil Profile
Soil Type
Sand
Soil pH
6.0-7.0
Drainage
Well Drained
Cosmos Planting Timeline — Reddick, FL
Cosmos Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | January 18 | Jan 18 – Feb 1 |
| Transplant Outdoors | January 18 | Jan 18 – Feb 1 |
| Direct Sow | January 18 | Jan 18 – Feb 8 |
| Bloom | March 29 | Mar 29 – Sep 13 |
Plant 0.3" deep · 12" apart · Rows 18" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| February | Start Indoors Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| March | Bloom |
| April | Bloom |
| May | Bloom |
| June | Bloom |
| July | Bloom |
| August | Bloom |
| September | Bloom |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
Low — drought tolerant
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–8 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 9a
📆 Growing Season
289 days in Marion County
Growing Tips for Reddick
Direct-sow after last frost; cosmos germinates readily at 65-80°F in 7-10 days. Avoid rich soil — excess fertility produces lush foliage at the expense of blooms. Cosmos tolerates poor, dry soil exceptionally well. Pinch seedlings at 8 inches to encourage branching. Self-sows freely; allow some seed heads to mature and drop for a no-fuss perennial effect in warm climates.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Check more plant combinations with our Companion Planting Checker →
Cosmos in Other Locations
When should I plant Cosmos in Reddick, FL?
In Reddick, FL, plant Cosmos after the last frost (around February 15) and before the first frost (around December 1). Best results when soil holds above 50°F.
What growing zone is Reddick, FL for Cosmos?
Reddick sits in USDA Zone 9a. Cosmos grows reliably in zones 2a through 11b, so it's a good fit here.
Can Cosmos grow in Reddick's climate?
Yes — Cosmos grows well in Reddick's temperate climate. Reddick averages a 290-day frost-free season, with last frost around February 15 and first frost around December 1.
Your Marion County Garden Planner — Free
A 22-page printable planner built for Marion County (Zone 9a). Planting dates, a month-by-month schedule, harvest log, seed inventory, and succession charts — all dialed in for your exact growing season.