Dianthus — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Dianthus plumarius |
|---|---|
| Seed germination (days) | 10–21 |
| Soil temperature for germination (°C) | 15.6–21.1 |
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 90–150 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 22.9–30.5 |
| Mature height (cm) | 22.9–45.7 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 22.9–45.7 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 3–9 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Low |
| Sowing method | Direct sow |
Growing directions
Direct-sow seeds on the surface of well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline soil in full sun in early spring or start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost; garden pinks are among the most fragrant border perennials, producing spicy clove-scented single or double flowers in pink, red, white, and bicolor combinations in late spring and early summer above blue-grey grassy foliage. Excellent drainage is essential — they rot quickly in wet, heavy, or acidic soils. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage a second flush of bloom, and shear the entire plant by about one-third after the main flowering season to maintain a compact, tidy mound. Short-lived in humid climates but easily propagated by cuttings taken in summer or by division in early fall every 2–3 years.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0