Dianthus
- Scientific Name: Dianthus
- Garden: Lawn Alternatives Garden
- Plant Type: Ground Cover
- Evergreen/Deciduous: Evergreen
- Sun/Shade Exposure: Full Sun
- Moisture Requirements: Moist, Well-Drained
Plant Information
Sweet Williams and carnations are excellent long-lasting cut flowers. There are also brilliant bedding types that offer color all summer. Dianthus flowers are commonly found in shades of reds, pinks and white, and have a sweet clove scent. Some carnation varieties are available in yellows and oranges. They combine well with lambs ear (Stachys), Alyssum, and Sun Rose (Helianthemum). Perennial varieties tend to bloom in May and June, with Sweet Williams, Carnations and annual varieties blooming throughout the summer. Dianthus make a wonderful fragrant addition to containers and window boxes. Culture: Grow in full to part sun, well-drained soil, and regular in the first year to establish perennial varieties. Dianthus appreciate some lime added to the hole at planting time. Maintenance: Side dress perennial varieties with an all-purpose granular fertilizer and lime in spring. Fertilize annual types two to three times with a liquid bloom fertilizer through the summer. Cut back D. barbatus (Sweet William) by 1/3 to ½ after flowering to keep as a perennial and divide every two to three years. D. deltoids and be cut back in the same manner as Sweet Williams to deter plants from dying out in the center. Additional qualities: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Deer resistant. Fragrant. Drought tolerant.
Data Source
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