SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Starting Indoors:
Start in sterile germinating mix in pots 6-8 weeks before planting out. Keep at 60-70°F with evenly moist conditions by placing a humidity dome over containers until germination occurs.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in spring, fall in warm winter areas (8-9).
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Grow spicy-scented fringed pink 'Rainbow Loveliness' in drifts along the edge of well-drained borders, rock gardens, and in containers, where they attract butterflies and bees while remaining uninteresting to deer. This heirloom thrives in cooler regions and benefits from shearing back and topdressing with two inches of compost after the initial flush of blooms. A short-lived perennial that self-sows in well-drained fertile soils to bloom in following Junes.
Watering Details:
Water regularly during first growing season, about 1" per week, watering mornings only. Once established water during especially prolonged dry periods. Avoid overwatering and saturated soils.
Soil pH:
Tolerates most soil pH levels, but neutral to alkaline is preferred. If soil is acidic, apply a handful of lime when planting.
Fertilizer:
Apply a low-nitrogen granular, organic fertilizer or 2" of compost in springtime.
Diseases & Pests:
Leaf spots can mar the leaves of Dianthus. Space well apart for good air circulation and apply organic fungicides if disease is present.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when two flowers are open on the spray.
