When is the best time to sow Dianthus barbatus

Dianthus barbatus, also known as Sweet William, ten varieties brocade, American pink, etc., is a plant with ornamental garden value and medicinal value. So when should it be sown? How should it be cared for?

When is Dianthus barbatus sown?

The best time to sow Dianthus barbatus is from February to May and from August to October each year. These two periods have plenty of sunlight and suitable temperatures, making them the best time to sow Dianthus barbatus seeds.

How is Dianthus barbatus grown?

1. Environment

Dianthus barbatus loves light, so it is best to plant it in a sunny place. If grown at home, place it on a balcony or windowsill where there is sun. It also likes loose, fertile soil with good air permeability and drainage. Before planting, loosen the soil. If growing it in a flowerpot, prepare suitable soil and apply some organic fertilizer; sufficient nutrients can promote germination and growth.

2. Sowing

In February to May or August to October, soak the seeds for about 24 hours, then remove them and let them dry. Then sow them in an open-field seedbed. After sowing, keep the potting soil moist. They will sprout 5 days after sowing and emerge in about 10 days. The suitable temperature for growth at the seedling stage is 10-20°C. When the seedlings grow 4-5 leaves, they can be transplanted.

3. Water and fertilizer

During the growth of Dianthus barbatus, water and fertilizer are essential. Water it frequently and appropriately, but never let the soil become waterlogged. In winter, water less. If the temperature is kept at 5-8°C, it will continue to bloom in winter and spring. Fertilization should also focus on light fertilizer, and the concentration should not be too high. Generally, apply a thin, decomposed liquid fertilizer once about every 10 days. In summer, when there is too much rain, pay attention to drainage and loosening the soil.

4. Pruning

When the seedlings grow to 15 cm tall, remove the terminal buds to encourage branching. After that, pay attention to appropriately removing axillary buds; otherwise, too many branches will disperse nutrients and make the flowers small. Appropriately removing axillary buds concentrates nutrients and can promote larger, more brightly colored flowers. Before flowering, promptly remove some flower buds in leaf axils, mainly to ensure that the terminal flower buds bloom.

Dianthus barbatus is generally susceptible to spider mites, so it can be controlled by spraying with a 1500-fold dilution of 40% omethoate emulsifiable concentrate.