Description
Sow them in early spring,or in late summer for next years blooms, approximately 8 weeks before outdoor transplanting. Lightly press seed in. Harden off and transplant out 6-8 weeks after sowing. Cool temperatures of 50-55°F (10-13°C) are required to keep the plants low growing and basal branching. Avoid warm temperatures in excess of 65°F (18°C), especially at night, which will produce soft growth. Direct seed – Early spring when a light frost is still possible.
Generally they do not flower their first year unless you plant their seeds indoors to give them a head start & can be started and transplanted outside in fall. Space 6″ apart. They will tolerate a little crowding and prefer rich, loose soil that drains well.
Excellent as a cut flower. Remove fading flowers to encourage more buds to form. Pruning plants back hard after blooming will encourage them to survive for another year. Self-sown seedlings may be moved in fall or early spring.
The genus name Dianthus comes from the Greek words “dios,” meaning heavenly, and “anthos,” meaning flower.
Days to Germination: 10 – 15 Full Sun – tolerates light shade. Plants grow (7-18 “) 13–45 cm tall
per packet approx 75+ seeds
