Native mainly to Europe and Asia. The common name Pink likely derives from the color of the bloom. However, there are those that believe that it comes from the earlier use of the word which was to cut in a ruffled pattern with pinking shears as the edges of Pinks are in a zigzag pattern.
Truly distinctive, this annual Dianthus thrives in full sun. Growing only 10-12" tall, the compact plants are adorned with masses of 1" brilliant red and pure white flowers, which is why it is named after Valentine's Day. The narrow elegant foliage brings additional interest to beds and borders. We recommend starting seed indoors and setting plants 12" apart in the garden. This Dianthus may over-winter in milder climates.
| Plant Types: | Annual |
| Light: | Full Sun |
| Height: | 10 inches to 1 foot |
| Width: | 8 inches to 10 inches |
| Bloom Color: | Red, White |
| Bloom Seasons: | Early spring, Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer, Late summer |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Special Features: | Deer resistant |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food, Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble Bloom Booster® Flower Food |
| Want to know where Carnation will thrive in your house or garden? The EasyBloom Plant Sensor will give you a plant's-eye view of your environment to measure soil, sunlight, temperature and humidity. |
Watch a Video > Learn More > Buy EasyBloom > |
Annual Pinks can be sown in flats or directly into the garden via seed. Perennial Pinks can be propagated by making cuttings from the tips of growing shoots and by dividing. Space 10 to 12" apart.
Pinks are easy to grow. They prefer full sun in a cool climate. Most varieties will grow 18" to 24", and if started early will bloom in the first year.
Most Pinks bloom in spring and early summer. Blooms are 1" to 2" in diameter. Removal of the spent flowers will promote new floral blooms.
Dianthus requires light and fast draining soils. The addition of lime can remedy overly acidic soils. Pinks are sensitive to over watering. In dry periods water once or twice a week.
Fertilize once a month.
When flowers die, cut stem to the ground.
Insects and disease are seldom a problem, though some species in this genus are susceptible to rust and Fusarium wilt. Mildew can occur in warm, humid climates.