Dianthus gratianopolitanus 'Firewitch'

Dianthus plants, also called pinks, are attractive and versatile blooming perennials. They make good choices for flowering borders, rock gardens or clumped groups in mixed beds. The variety called "Firewitch" (Dianthus gratianopolitanus "Feuerhexe") has an especially low growth habit and a clove like aroma.

Feed: Fertilize cheddar pinks with 5-10-10 fertilizer in the spring just before blooming. Repeat in midsummer and again in the fall.

Prune: Although it blooms profusely in spring, you can prompt the plant to produce a second set of flowers in late summer or early fall by removing spent flowers. Since flowers are set close to one another on this plant and the foliage is low and below the flowers, shearing it with a pair of garden scissors makes removing old flowers quick and easy.

Notes: Although "Firewitch" dianthus might develop fungal diseases, such as leaf spot, rust or wilt, siting the plant in well-draining soil and clearing up debris that might hold water can help prevent these problems.

Links

Height: 8 inches

Spread: 12 inches

Blooming: Early Summer; Early Fall

Soil Moisture: Low water needs

Sun Exposure: Full Sun