Dianthus cruentus

Germination

Sow indoors. Sow on the surface of moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover the seed with compost. Keep at 15-21°C. Germination takes 7-14 days. Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle to 8cm pots. Grow on in cooler conditions. Acclimatise and plant out after danger of frost has passed with 20cm spacing.

Growing

Prefers a sunny position with a well-drained, dry to moderately dry soil. Will tolerate most soil types.

Cultivation

Deadhead to extend flowering and to maintain plant vigour. After the first killing frost cut all stems back to 2-4 cm above soil line. Has a short life expectancy of 3-4 years so propagate by division or cuttings to maintain the plants in your garden. Divide in spring as new growth appears.