Beyond pink

The pink-and-white 'Sensation' mix is everywhere, but cosmos have got far more interesting. Try: 'Apricot Lemonade' (peach), 'Xanthos' (creamy yellow), 'Purity' (pure white), 'Rubenza' (deep ruby), 'Daydream' (white with pink eye).

For pots, choose dwarf 'Sonata' series (40–60 cm). For cutting beds, taller 'Sensation' or 'Versailles' (1.2 m).