Best of the bunch

●● COSMOS

These cheerful daisy-like blooms on bushy plants add both height and colour to the summer border and are perfect filler plants to replace earlier perennials which have faded.

Plant breeders are producing more dwarf versions which are good for patio pots but in mixed borders it’s best to go for larger plants which will make more of an impact. Cosmos also provide cut flowers in beautiful colours from soft pinks to carmines and then deep claret-crimson in late summer, which is when the tender perennial C. atrosanguineus, the chocolate-smelling cosmos, comes into flower.

They like full sun and moist but well-drained soil. The annuals will thrive with regular top dressing, watering and picking.