Dianthus

What are Dianthus?

How to Care for Dianthus

These plants will flower best in full sun conditions. These perennials are adaptable to any well drained soil. Water this plant thoroughly about twice weekly when it is newly planted. Once your plant is established, water it when the ground is dry. A layer of mulch can be applied to reduce watering needs and protect your plant’s roots. Fertilize with our slow release fertilizer when planting and in spring. Dianthus are a low maintenance plant.

How To Deadhead Dianthus

Deadheading isn’t a necessary chore for this plant, but it does have its benefits. Deadheading can encourage your plant to rebloom. It can lengthen bloom time and increase flower quantity as well. When the bloom has faded trim off the flower down to the closest set of leaves. Pruning shears or scissors may be used to trim this flowering plant.

When Do Dianthus Bloom

Dianthus generally bloom throughout spring. They often rebloom in late summer and fall. Deadheading after the first bloom period increases the chance of a rebloom. New varieties like the heat tolerant Super Trouper series are repeat bloomers even without deadheading. They have a very long bloom period and flower on and off from spring through fall.

When To Plant Dianthus

Spring or fall are the best time to plant perennials for most of the United States. Regions with mild summers can plant at that time as well. Subtropical areas, like California and Florida are better off planting in winter than summer. The Firewitch Dianthus and Frosty Fire Dianthus are extremely cold hardy while the Super Trouper Silver Pink and the Super Trouper Orange are very heat tolerant.

How To Plant Dianthus

Water your potted perennial thoroughly before planting. Prepare the ground by digging a hole about twice as wide as the pot and not quite as deep as the root ball. Gently loosen the roots of your plant and put it in the hole. Be sure the root ball is level with or slightly higher than the existing soil line to be sure you don’t plant too deep. Fill the soil back in the hole around the root ball of your new plant. Gently pack down the soil to remove air bubbles. Water your plants thoroughly until the ground can’t hold water. Apply a small mound of mulch around your plant.