Description
Dianthus
Because of their incredible array of colors, dianthus are a great addition to your fall garden! While fall gardens are usually sprinkled with earthy, fall colors like brown, yellow, orange, and red, dianthus offers a refreshing splash of nearly every color from white to nearly black. These dainty flowers are perfect for cottage gardens, borders, containers, rock gardens, cutting gardens, and more!
Dianthus are used as either ground cover or simple garden fillers that reach up to thirty inches tall. These low-maintenance plants are fragrant and thrive in hardiness zones 3 to 8. They’re also the perfect pollinator flower as they attract bees and butterflies easily.
The best times to plant dianthus are in the cooler months during spring or fall. They also love rich, well-draining soil that is in full or part sun. For better, more robust shows of colorful blooms, deadhead the spent flowers.
The best dianthus to plant for fall gardens are either the Telstar series or the Firewitch Cheddar Pinks. These two blooms sporadically in late summer and fall.
Related to the Carnation. Dianthus is also used from spring through the winter months. Dianthus is available in Carnation scented blooms of pink, white, red, purple, and bi-colors.
Dianthus is a low-maintenance perennial or annual, depending on the variety, and thrives in a variety of climates. Here’s why gardeners love this plant:
- Beautiful Blooms – Available in shades of pink, red, white, and purple, Dianthus flowers create eye-catching displays.
- Fragrant Flowers – Many varieties have a pleasant, clove-like scent that attracts pollinators.
- Drought Tolerant – Once established, Dianthus requires minimal watering.
- Long Blooming Season – Enjoy flowers from spring through fall with proper care.
- Easy to Grow – Perfect for both beginner and experienced gardeners.
How to Grow and Care for Dianthus
To get the most out of your Dianthus plants, follow these simple care tips:
- Sunlight: Dianthus thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, slightly alkaline soil.
- Watering: Water regularly but avoid overwatering; Dianthus dislikes soggy soil.
- Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks for continuous blooms.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth and extend the blooming season.
See other annual flowers. Visit one of two plant nursery locations in Euless or Benbrook.