Dianthus

Overview

Dianthus is a large genus of plants that contains several common ornamental plants. Most are perennials, and most have similar grass-like foliage with dainty pink fringed flowers. A few are annuals. Some are mounded, some are spreading, some are single flowered, and many are double flowered.

Water

Water only the soil at the base of the plant, and avoid getting water on the leaves or the crown. Let them dry out between watering. Try not to apply too much water to the surrounding area where the humidity in the microclimate may get too high.

Light

Dianthus like full sun, so make sure to plant them in an area that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.

Soil

Dianthus prefer slightly alkaline soil. If you need to “sweeten” your soil, or make it more alkaline, mixing a little gypsum into your beds prior to planting can help. They also need well-draining soil. They do best if you mix a little gravel and mulch around the base to keep the leaves off the ground. Avoid organic heavy soil amendments and mulches that hold onto a lot of water.

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