How to Grow Annual Dianthus
If you are looking for an easy flower to grow that produces endless blooms all summer long, think about growing annual dianthus. These pretty little flowers come in several color variations and are hardy and just about pest-free and disease resistant. Commonly referred to as "pinks" because their blossoms have ragged or serrated edges. Pynken was an old English word meaning pinking shears, which fits with the serrated petals of dianthus.
Choose your favorite colors and sizes of annual dianthus from 300 different species. Average plant heights are 18 to 24 inches, although several varieties could get as high as three feet. Color choices include lavender, rose, red, white, yellow and pink. Bi-color combinations are an adorable way to add exciting splashes of color to any flower garden.
Find the perfect spot in your garden, yard or consider container gardening. These grow almost anywhere providing they have at least a minimum of four hours of full sun daily.
Consider growing dianthus from seed. When the threat of frost has passed in the spring you can sow seeds in the garden. Space seeds at least 10 inches apart and put a light covering of soil on top. Water thoroughly. After seedlings develop use a basic fertilizer of 10-10-10 for hardy plants. If you prefer, you can start plants indoors to get a head start on the gardening season.
Buy flats of dianthus bedding plants already started from local nurseries for plenty of great color and easy transplanting. For smaller quantities choose four or six packs. Encourage blooms through out the season by pinching off spent blooms.
Provide a routine watering schedule each week if there is not enough rainfall, but do not over water.
- Treat powdery mildew when conditions are overly humid with fungicide.