Dianthus Growing Guide
Dianthus caryophyllus
Crop Rotation Group
Miscellaneous ●
Soil
Average garden soil with excellent drainage.
Position
Full sun.
Frost tolerant
Annual dianthus tolerates light frost with ease, but can be damaged by hard freezes.
Feeding
Encourage fast growth by mixing a balanced organic fertiliser into the soil before planting.
Companions
Dianthus combines well with other cold-tolerant annuals including pansies, cineraria, and ornamental cabbage and kale.
Spacing
Single Plants: 30cm (11") each way (minimum)
Rows: 30cm (11") with 30cm (11") row gap (minimum)
Sow and Plant
Set out stocky seedlings in early spring, or in autumn where winters are mild.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.
Notes
Dianthus blooms earlier than other annuals, and well-sited plants may persist for two years in areas with mild winters. Colours include pink, red, lavender, white and many bicolours.
Harvesting
Some varieties have stems long enough for cutting. As flowers fade, snip them off with scissors to keep the plants looking neat.
Troubleshooting
Both rabbits and deer like to nibble dianthus foliage. In summer, spider mites cause occasional problems and can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Planting and Harvesting Calendar
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Pests which Affect Dianthus