Dianthus

Dianthus are great for beginners and are a trusted annual for drier, hot conditions. Enjoy shades of pink, purple, red, and white. They excel in container gardens and ground beds providing continual color all summer long. This plant made our list for easy summer annuals.

Light: Plant in full to part sun. Provide at least 6 hours of sunlight for best performance. This plant does not mind drier conditions.

Temperature: Enjoys average summer temperatures. Keep plant between 45-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover, shelter, or bring in from the cold if temperatures dip below and shelter from the sun if temperatures exceed this range.

Water: Water this plant regularly allowing soil to dry slightly between watering. Water at the base of the plant to avoid extra moisture on the foliage.

Nutrients: No special feed required. Feed with an all-purpose fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer. Follow the directions on the label for amount and how often to feed.

Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix designed for containers. Always select a container with drainage.

Container Design: Dianthus work great as a thriller plant in containers. Their foliage fills out to about 8 inches and their blooms can reach about 10-12 inches tall. They also excel planted in the ground to create a full garden bed with a mass of color. Plant alone or pair with other sun-loving annuals.

Deadheading: Deadheading is recommended for good health. Wait until flowers wither or fade in color, then trim the flower stem at the base. This will help the plant direct its energy to producing new blooms.

Happy Planting: Dianthus come in many different colors, but mostly shades of pink, purple, red, and white continuing to bloom all summer long. Many medium-sized flowers open with 5 flower petals with ruffled edges. They are considered deer resistant and offer a slight fragrance.