When to Plant Cosmos in Idaho
Delicate, daisy-like blooms that dance in the breeze. Cosmos thrive in poor soil and practically grow themselves.
The Short Answer
Idaho Frost Dates
Your planting dates depend on which part of Idaho you're in. Here are the frost date ranges by region:
| Region | Zones | Last Frost (Spring) | First Frost (Fall) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Idaho | 5a, 5b, 6a | May 5 - May 25 | Sep 15 - Oct 5 |
| Boise Area | 6b, 7a | Apr 20 - May 5 | Oct 5 - Oct 20 |
| Eastern Idaho | 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a | May 20 - Jun 10 | Sep 1 - Sep 20 |
Cosmos Planting Schedule for Idaho
Northern Idaho (Zones 5a, 5b, 6a)
Average last frost: May 5 - May 25 · Average first frost: Sep 15 - Oct 5
Boise Area (Zones 6b, 7a)
Average last frost: Apr 20 - May 5 · Average first frost: Oct 5 - Oct 20
Eastern Idaho (Zones 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a)
Average last frost: May 20 - Jun 10 · Average first frost: Sep 1 - Sep 20
Growing Cosmos in Idaho
Cosmos in Idaho's Climate
Cosmos bloom reliably even in short-season gardens — direct sow after last frost and enjoy graceful flowers from July through hard frost. They actually prefer poor soil and minimal water, making them one of the lowest-maintenance flowers in any climate. Self-seed for volunteer plants next year.
Soil Considerations for Idaho
Volcanic ash soils in south — excellent for gardening. Rocky soils in mountains. Alkaline in many areas. Make sure soil has warmed to at least 60°F before planting cosmos outside.
Idaho Climate & Growing Season
Arid climate. Low humidity. Hot days and cool nights. Irrigation essential. Short season at higher elevations. Cosmos cannot tolerate any frost, so wait until all frost danger has passed before transplanting outside. Watch local forecasts carefully in spring.
Growing season length varies across Idaho: Northern Idaho (5a, 5b, 6a) has a last frost around May 5 - May 25, while Eastern Idaho (3b, 4a, 4b, 5a) sees frost end around May 20 - Jun 10. This difference matters for cosmos — transplant timing shifts by several weeks across the state.
Growing Tips
Don't over-fertilize — rich soil produces more leaves and fewer flowers. Let some flowers go to seed for next year's crop.
Companion Planting
Plant cosmos alongside these companions for better growth:
The Bottom Line
Last reviewed: March 29, 2026