Dianthus is a genus of
around 300 species of flowering plants native to Europe and Asia. This genus is
known for its beautiful flowers existing in red, purple, white and pink colors.
Carnation, Sweet William and Pinks are some commonly found and popular dianthuses.
Some believe color pink came from pink dianthus. They are very easy to grow and
come as annual, biennial and perennial varieties.
Propagation
Dianthus can be
propagated from seeds as well as cuttings. Propagation from cuttings gives plants
same as mother plant. Take cuttings by making a sharp cut just below a node on
a new, unflowered stem. Then put the cuttings in prepared soil mix and cover
the container with plastic bag.
Sow seeds in March –
April when soil starts to warm. Press seeds 1/8 inch deep and 12 – 18 inches
apart in soil. Cover seeds with soil and water daily with sprayer. Seeds should
sprout within 2 weeks.
Container
A small to medium sized
container can be used as Dianthus are small plants. Make sure container is
having adequate number of drainage holes to ensure smooth drainage of water.
Soil
Use well drained soil
enriched with organic matter. You can improve soil quality by adding 2 inches
of compost and 1 inch of manure in case of poor soil.
Sun / Temperature
Dianthus should get
minimum of 4-5 hours of direct sun light.
Watering
Allow soil to dry out
between two water cycles. Do not overwater the plant. Water Dianthus once a
week with 1 inch of water. ( Rule of thumb )
Fertilizer
Feed the plant with
liquid fertilizer every 2 months to promote continuous blooming. Dilute the
fertilizer to half strength before using it.
Caring
Deadheading (removing
dead flowers) is recommended to promote blooming.
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