Dianthus

Carnation Plants – Best Dianthus Caryophyllus In New Zealand!

Growing colourful perennials such as Dianthus caryophyllus (commonly known as carnation) in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• They are visual plants that add impact to a space.
• They attract birds and bees.
• Street appeal can be greatly enhanced.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We have both the largest variety of Dianthus plants, and the right one for your space. Our carnation plants have been selected to thrive in NZ’s climate, and we grow and stock only the highest quality plants. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy Dianthus, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Dianthus Questions

1. What month is best to plant Dianthus?

The best month to plant Dianthus is anytime from autumn until spring. Planting at this time gets the plants established before the heat of summer sets in. They can be planted in summer as long as they are watered regularly.

2. Does Dianthus come back every year?

Dianthus are perennial plants, which means that it comes back every year. They typically live for 3-5 years, but some varieties can live for up to 10 years.

3. What is the difference between a carnation and a dianthus?

Carnation is the common name for Dianthus caryophyllus. Dianthus is a genus of flowering plants and has over 300 species, many of which are popular garden plants.

The main difference between a carnation and a dianthus is that carnations are typically larger and have more flamboyant flowers than other Dianthus species. Carnations are also often scented, while other Dianthus species may or may not be.

4. Do dianthus only bloom once?

Some Dianthus species bloom only once, while others rebloom throughout the growing season. The blooming habit of a dianthus plant depends on the variety and the growing conditions.

Dianthus plants that bloom only once typically bloom in the spring or early summer. These plants typically produce a large flush of flowers that last for several weeks. Some examples of dianthus species that bloom only once include:

• Dianthus barbatus (sweet William)
• Dianthus deltoides (maiden pink)
• Dianthus plumarius (plume dianthus)

Dianthus plants that rebloom throughout the growing season typically produce smaller blooms, but they bloom more frequently. Some examples of dianthus species that rebloom throughout the growing season include:

• Dianthus caryophyllus (carnation)
• Dianthus gratianopolitanus (Cheddar pink)
• Dianthus japonicus (sweet Japanese pink)

5. Are Dianthus annuals or perennials?

Dianthus can be annuals, perennials, or biennials, depending on the species. Some of the most popular dianthus varieties are perennials, but there are also a number of annual and biennial varieties available.

• Perennials: Dianthus caryophyllus (carnation), Dianthus deltoides (maiden pink), Dianthus gratianopolitanus (Cheddar pink), Dianthus japonicus (sweet Japanese pink), Dianthus plumarius (plume dianthus)
• Annuals: Dianthus chinensis (Chinese pink), Dianthus armeria (Deptford pink)
• Biennials: Dianthus barbatus (sweet William)

6. How do you grow Dianthus in New Zealand?

Growing Dianthus in New Zealand is a rewarding experience, with their vibrant blooms adding pops of colour and fragrance to your garden. Here's what you need to know:

Climate and Location:

• Dianthus thrives in sunny positions with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• They prefer well-drained soil to avoid root rot. Sandy loam or slightly alkaline soil (pH 7-7.5) are ideal.
• Choose a sheltered spot, protected from wind.

Planting:

• Plant seedlings or young potted plants anytime from spring to autumn in warm temperate areas, or spring to summer in cooler regions.
• Space plants 20-30 cm apart depending on the variety.
• Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and mix in some compost or manure for improved drainage and fertility.
• Plant the Dianthus at the same depth they were in the pot.
• Water well after planting and continue to water regularly until established.

Care:

• Dianthus need moderate watering, especially during hot weather. Water deeply when the soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as they are susceptible to root rot.
• Use a controlled-release fertilizer such as https://www.theplantcompany.co.nz/shop/product/fertiliser/tree-and-shrub-fertiliser
• Pinch off spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

7. Where is the best place to plant Dianthus?

The best place to plant Dianthus depends on several factors:

• Sunlight and warmth: Dianthus thrives in full sun, receiving at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They love warmth and enjoy basking in the sun's rays. So, choose an open area that isn't shaded by buildings or trees for most of the day.
• Soil and drainage: Well-drained soil is crucial for Dianthus to flourish. They dislike soggy conditions and are prone to root rot if waterlogged. Look for soil that's sandy or loamy, with good drainage to allow excess water to easily run through. Raised beds can be helpful in areas with heavy clay soil.
• Shelter and wind: While Dianthus enjoys sunshine, strong winds can be damaging. If your area experiences frequent gusts, consider planting your Dianthus in a sheltered spot, protected by a wall, fence, or taller plants. This can help prevent the stems from being whipped and broken.
• Companion plants: Dianthus can be wonderful companions for other sun-loving plants. Consider pairing them with low-growing herbs like thyme or lavender, taller perennials like daisies or coneflowers, or even ornamental grasses for a dynamic and textured look. Just ensure your chosen companions have similar sunlight and drainage needs.
• Specific uses: Are you looking for Dianthus as a border plant, in containers, or perhaps in a rock garden? Different locations might be suitable depending on the use. For example, for borders, choose a spot where their vibrant blooms can be enjoyed from various angles. For containers, ensure they receive enough sunlight and have adequate drainage holes.

8. How do you keep dianthus blooming?

Keeping your Dianthus blooming beautifully takes a little care and attention. Here are some key tips:

Sun and Soil:

• Sunshine: Ensure your Dianthus receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Lack of sun can lead to fewer blooms and weaker stems.
• Well-drained soil: Dianthus thrives in well-drained soil to avoid root rot. Sandy loam or slightly alkaline soil (pH 7-7.5) are ideal. Raised beds can be helpful in areas with heavy clay soil.

Watering and Fertiliser:

• Moderate watering: Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as they are susceptible to root rot.
• Use an appropriate fertiliser such as: https://www.theplantcompany.co.nz/shop/product/fertiliser/tree-and-shrub-fertiliser This provides steady nourishment for continuous blooms.

Deadheading:

• Regular deadheading is crucial for encouraging continuous blooming. Pinch off spent flowers as soon as they start to fade. This redirects the plant's energy towards producing new blooms.

9. Is dianthus poisonous to dogs?

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Dianthus are not considered toxic to dogs. However, it's always best to be cautious and supervise your dog around any plants, as even non-toxic plants can sometimes cause stomach upset if ingested in large amounts.