How to Grow and Care for the Dianthus Flower in Containers
Intro: Dianthus flowers are perfect for plant containers and will bring a splash of color to any urban balcony garden. Dianthus flowers come in many colors, either it be a solid white, red, purple, pink and sometimes yellow, or with two colors or marks in the petals. The height of this flower ranges from 6 inches to 3 feet, and there are so many Dianthus varieties that any gardener can find a beautiful Dianthus species to fit his or her balcony garden.
Scientific Name: Dianthus spp.
Plant Type: Dianthus flowers are annual; some species are biennial
Light: Full sun, although several varieties, such as Dianthus deltoides, do well in partial shade.
Water: When it comes to watering Dianthus flowers, keep the soil evenly moist. Do not overwater or allow the potting soil to dry out.
Zone: Depends on variety. The Dianthus genus can range from Zone 3 to 11.
Fertilizer: Fertilize once a month during the Dianthus flower’s growing season.
Pests and Diseases: Most Dianthus plants will stay healthy and not be affected by insect pests or disease. Be on the lookout for aphids, spider mites, root and stem rot and mildew.
Propagation: To propagate this plant, allow spent Dianthus flowers to stay on the plant (do not deadhead) in order for the flowers to develop seeds. Collect seeds and plant after the last frost has passed. You can also just allow seeds to fall to the ground. New Dianthus flowers will spring up next year in the same spot.
Misc. Info: Deadhead flowers to produce more blooms.
