Dianthus plumarius, 'Rainbow Loveliness'

Germination

Sow indoors. Surface sow onto moist, well-drained seed compost. Just cover the seed with compost. Keep at 21°C. Germination takes 7-21 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 30 cm spacing.

Growing

Prefers rich, light , well-drained soil with full sun. Does not tolerate a wet soil in winter.

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.