SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Starting Indoors:
Sow indoors 10-12 weeks before planting out after last frost date. Keep at 65-70°F until germination occurs, then at 55-65°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow 3-4 weeks before the last spring frost date.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Carthusian pink is a graceful, airy plant that seduces gardeners with its vivid sparks of fuchsia pink flowers perched atop thin agile stems. It attracts butterflies and bees and fends off deer predation. Deadheading will promote additional flowering during summer. To increase your patch of this pink, resow from seeds or divide every 2-3 years. For zones 3-6, early spring is the time for this, while in zones 7-9, divide in the fall.
Watering Details:
Water regularly during first growing season, about 1" per week. Once established, only water during especially prolonged dry periods.
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.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when 1/2 of the florets are open.