How to Find Seeds on an Original Phlox Cosmopolitan

Cosmopolitan from Seed

• When it comes to making more "Cosmopolitan" phlox, locating the seeds on the parent plants may not be the only challenge. The variety was developed as the result of extensive selective breeding. Open pollination under garden conditions allows for variability in pollen sources, possibly resulting in offspring plants that are different from the parents. For offspring that are identical to parent plants, either obtain "Cosmopolitan" seeds from commercial vendors, or when the plant is several years old, divide and replant the clumps.

Dwarf Cosmopolitan Characteristics

• Part of a phlox series named after popular cocktails, "Cosmopolitan" is a dwarf variety, growing to a height of 11 to 15 inches tall, with a spread of 12 to 14 inches. A normal size garden phlox is 24 to 48 inches tall, with a 24- to 36-inch spread. Though the plants are shorter, the individual florets are larger -- 1.5 inches across, as opposed to .75 inches for a normal garden phlox. Some garden phlox varieties are also susceptible to powdery mildew, a fungal disease, while "Cosmopolitan" and its sibling varieties are mildew resistant.

Cosmo Culture

• To grow "Cosmopolitan" plants that produce the most seeds, use optimal cultural practices. Start young plants outdoors after all danger of frost has passed. Grow in full sun in well drained, loamy soil with regular moisture. Provide proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering to help prevent powdery mildew. If signs of mildew appear, remove and destroy affected leaves immediately. Mulch during summer months to conserve soil moisture. After blooming, do not remove spent flowerheads, but allow seedheads to develop and collect seeds before cutting down stalks. Store seeds in a cool, dry place.

Garden Uses

• Dwarf phlox like "Cosmopolitan" make attractive middle of the border subjects for traditional mixed beds and borders. In cottage type gardens, they can be allowed to self seed for an informal effect. The plants are good nectar sources, pollinated by butterflies and make a perfect addition to butterfly and habitat gardens. Because of their compact size, "Cosmopolitan" can also be grown in containers, which need not prevent gardeners from seed collection, if that is desired.