Black King Dianthus Seeds

The petals are such a dark shade of red that they are seen as a velvety black. A bushy plant that grows to 60cm tall producing fragrant double flowers. Will usually bloom in first year if grown early otherwise will flower in second year, a great plant for cutting and will last a long time. 50 seeds per package.

Tips on How to Grow Dianthus-King of Blacks-Perennial

The petals are such a dark shade of red that they are seen as a velvety black. The strong stemmed plants are bushy and grow to 20 , bearing lots of medium size, rich darkest purple, well scented blooms. Hardy in zones 5-10. Elsewhere grow as an annual. Will usually bloom in first year if grown early otherwise will flower in second year, a great plant for cutting and will last a long time. A full sun position with protection from strong ground winds is recommended. Cover seed lightly, as light is required for germination. Soil: Dianthus prefers an alkaline soil that is well drained. This can be achieved in acidic soils with the addition of Dolomite or Lime at the recommended rate. Watering: Avoid too much over head watering which can cause blackening of the foliage and rotting. The use of dripper irrigation or seeper hoses is ideal. Feeding: Moderate feeding is recommended in early spring with an organic slow release fertilizer. Pruning: Remove old flower spikes regularly. All dianthus will benefit from a trim after flowering to leave a more compact plant that will reflower readily. Pest & Disease free. Free of major pests and disease, dianthus can be prone to rust or viral infection. The best method of control is to remove the infected parts and destroy. For plants that are badily infected remove the entire plant. Viral diseases are usually spread via sap sucking insects or pruning implements. Planting Companions: Roses, nepeta, calamintha, Sisynchrium, Origanum, Phlox SOW INDOORS in February for mild winter climates in flats for June blooming or sow outdoors directly in April for summer flowers. Cover seed lightly, as light is required for germination. Germination is 7-14 days. Space outside 6-8". GARDEN HINTS: A reliable favorite for summer and fall color in borders and containers. Dianthus can also be grown as a winter annual in mild-winter climates. Best in well drained soil. Dianthus are biennial or short lived perennial. and most varities are grown as annuals.