Sweetly scented and dainty Dianthus deserve a place in any flower garden. Coming in a range of colours including, white, pink, mauve, and red they make a great show and look good when planted in the garden or pots on the deck or in the courtyard. Dianthus are a good flower for picking and will last in a vase for up to a week.
Planting Calendar
Dianthus are best planted from spring through to autumn.
Prepare
Position
Dianthus like a sunny position for optimal flowering.
Soil
When planted into the ground dianthus likes a free draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well. When growing in containers, plant into Kings Container mix. This mix contains added water storage crystals and Saturaid, two products that help maintain moisture in the soil.
Plant
When planting into the ground, ensure the plants are watered well before planting. Gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plants root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Sheep Pellets, then mix together well. Back fill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and will help to break down the clay. When planting into containers ensure that the plants are watered well before planting. Plant in Kings Containers mix, as this has water retention crystals in it, which will help in keeping the soil moist. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than allowing it to run off the top of the soils surface. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting as this will help channel the water deep down into the root zone. If planted in pots never allow the pot to sit in water.
Feeding
When planted in the ground liquid feed every month with Aquaticus Garden Booster, from Spring through to the end of Autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health. If planted into a container, feed with Kings Liquid Fast Food along with monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster this encourages strong roots and a healthy immune system.
Protecting
Protect from slugs and snails with quash. For best results, re-apply after rain.
Mulching
Mulch around the base of the plants (make sure that the mulch does not come into direct contact with the stem of the plant) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Mulching helps to reduce weeds as well as aiding the soil to retain moisture.
Pruning
Deadheading regularly will encourage a denser plant and more flowers.
General Care
When using sprays, chemicals or fertilisers always read the label and follow the instructions. Apply sprays in the evening to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Beginner Tip
Regular dead heading will help to promote new flowers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I water Dianthus?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than allowing it to run off the top of the soils surface. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting as this will help channel the water deep down into the root zone. If planted in pots never allow the pot to sit in water.
When is the best time to plant Dianthus?
Plant Dianthus in early spring or autumn when temperatures are mild. This allows the plants to establish roots before the extreme heat or cold.
Are Dianthus plants prone to any pests or diseases?
Dianthus can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and fungal diseases. Regularly inspect your plants and treat any issues promptly with appropriate measures.
How long does Dianthus typically live?
Perennial varieties of Dianthus can live for several years with proper care. However, some may decline after 2-3 years and benefit from being replaced or divided.
How do I propagate Dianthus?
Dianthus can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division. The easiest method is to take cuttings in late spring or early summer and root them in a sandy medium.
