Keep The Colors Blooming All Season in Your Flower Garden – Ag Matters

You may not see Shakespeare quoted in gardening very often, but; "a rose by any other name would smell as sweet" may best describe flowers from the "dianthus" family."  The Master Gardeners at Cornell Cooperative Extension say the wide variety of flowers can keep the color blooming throughout the growing season.

Whether you call them "Pinks" or "Sweet William" they are cousins of the familiar florist carnations.  Whatever the name, it's definitely not just pink; there are varieties in red, lavender, white, and even bi-colors. They come in varieties classified as annuals, biennials, and perennials.

Most varieties are low-growing, but their growth habit is different. Some will form mounds with flowers that look like they are floating above the foliage. Others have more spreading habits. The foliage looks nice too and stays neat most of the season. These plants will bloom a long time, with regular deadheading and pruning.

Consider perennial varieties such as 'Tiny Rubies' or 'Zing Rose'. However, don't pass up the the annual dianthus varieties. These can come back for you if winters are mild and if planted in a protected spot. Whichever variety you pick, they need a sunny spot and well-drained soil. If you have heavy clay, the plants may suffer from crown or root rot. Very few insects or diseases bother them. They don't need a lot of moisture; this is why many are suitable for rock gardens. They look great as edging plants, interspersed with other ornamentals, or in containers.

Once dianthus is done blooming, shear it back. Using a sharp scissors, grab the stems with one hand and cut them back by about half. Don't be afraid-- the plant will look strange at first, but it will reward you later with a second flush of foliage and even a second display of flowers. If you've never tried pinks before, now is the time to add them to your garden.

For more tips on growing dianthus, visit Cornell's gardening website or call the Horticulture Hot Line Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00am to 12:00pm at 315-736-3394.

SOURCE: Cornell Cooperative Extension