Share this article

How to Keep Dianthus Blooming

By: Annita Lawson

●

21 July, 2017

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

There are approximately 300 species of dianthus to choose from, in biennial, annual and perennial varieties. They have colorful blooms in numerous shades of pink, white, red and purple. The blooms open in spring and will last until frost, if provided with the right growing conditions and care. Dianthus are not fussy plants and it takes very little to keep them happy. Plentiful sunlight, sufficient water and regular grooming help ensure that blooms adorn the plants all season long.

Plant dianthus in a site that receives full sun at least six hours every day.

Place 2 inches of mulch around the plants to keep moisture from evaporating too quickly.

There are approximately 300 species of dianthus to choose from, in biennial, annual and perennial varieties.
Place 2 inches of mulch around the plants to keep moisture from evaporating too quickly.

Water dianthus when less than 1 inch of rain falls in a week.

Feed every month during the growing season with water-soluble fertilizer.

Clip the blooms off as they fade.

Broadcast a 1-inch layer of compost around the plants each spring if growing perennial or biennial dianthus.

Divide perennial dianthus clumps once every three or four years. This is best done in early spring.

Dianthus Spp?

When planting these flowers, choose a location with full sun exposure, which is at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil must drain quickly, because these flowers do not tolerate wet soil. Before planting, mix a 2- to 4-inch layer of well-rotted compost into the top 6 inches of soil to improve soil quality Dianthus flowers are available in many different sizes and colors. In USDA zones 6 through 9, China pinks grow as annuals or biennials. Peek under the leaves and discard any plants infested with garden pests like aphids. Leave the floppy plants at the store, taking home the shorter compact plants. Dianthus plants suffer from crown and root rot when grown in wet conditions.

Water dianthus when less than 1 inch of rain falls in a week.
Broadcast a 1-inch layer of compost around the plants each spring if growing perennial or biennial dianthus.