DIANTHUS Spp.

Carnation’

FAMILY: Dianthus

USES: Used for its showy and sweet scented seasonal flower display. Often used as a bedding or edging plant alongside a path. Also used en masse, in mixed borders, as a container plant, in pots, hanging baskets, window boxes and in courtyards.

SIZE: Depending on the species and variety, it will grow from to 30 – 45cm tall. Fast growing.

LOCATION: Full sun to partial shade. Does well with some protection from direct sea wind or hot, dry desert wind which may cause leaf burn.

SOIL: Best in an organically enriched free draining fertile soil with a pH 5.6 – 6.5, acidic to mildly acidic.

FERTILISER: Apply a half strength liquid 9:2:6 NPK with trace elements every two months starting as soon as the flower buds appear. Watch out for yellowing and adjust with Fe sulphate if required.

WATER: Water weekly and take care to avoid waterlogging as this plant Is quite sensitive which will quickly lead to rot.