Dianthus seeds planting instructions

Dianthus seeds planting instructions

Well-drained soil

Dianthus seeds need well-drained soil, preferably with a neutral to alkaline pH. Dianthus won't put up with wet soils, especially in winter. Dianthus appreciate the aerated qualities of gravelly or rocky soil, so aim to provide conditions that simulate this as closely as possible. Building raised beds is a brilliant way to improve drainage. If your soil has lots of clay, coarse sand, gypsum and dolomite will help to open it up.

Lossen soil and mix with compost

Prepare the garden bed by using a garden fork or tiller to loosen soil to a depth of 12 to 15 inches, then mix in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost. Apply a fine layer of compost each spring, followed by a 2-inch layer of mulch to lock in moisture and keep weeds in check.

Full sun

Plant your dianthus seeds where they will receive as much sun as possible. Plant dianthus in spring or autumn, spacing plants 6 to 12 inches apart.
Dianthus maintenance instructions
Water dianthus during the summer if rainfall is less than 1 inch per week. Stake tall varieties to keep them vertical. Remove depleted blooms on tall dianthus varieties, or shear back mounding plants after bloom to encourage rebloom. After the first frost, cut dianthus stems back to an inch or two above soil line.

Enjoy your dianthus again next year

Divide dianthus plants every 3 to 4 years when new growth begins in the spring, lifting plants and dividing them into clumps. Dig up an entire clump, and either pull it apart using your hands to separate the plant segments, or use two gardening forks inserted into the center of the clump to gently level the plant open. Replant each new dianthus division as you would a new perennial or annual, and water it in generously.

Our dianthus seeds and all our bulbs are delivered with detailed planting instructions.

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