Dianthus Chinensis Care

Water

• China pinks require regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. However, too much water may result in diseases such as rot or powdery mildew. Provide about 1 inch of water per week, then let the soil dry slightly before watering again. Water by hand whenever possible to keep the foliage dry. If you use a sprinkler, water early in the day so the foliage has time to dry before evening. Container-grown China pinks require water more often and may require water daily during hot weather. Check the container daily. If the soil is dry, water slowly until water drips through the drainage hole whenever the soil feels dry.

Fertilizer

• Like most perennials, China pinks are light feeders, and too much fertilizer often creates weak, floppy, disease-prone plants. Feed China pinks in early spring, using no more than 1/4 cup of 5-10-5 fertilizer per plant. Sprinkle the fertilizer in a ring around the plant, then use a trowel to work the fertilizer into the top of the soil. Provide second and third applications at six and 12 weeks. Feed container-grown China pinks an all-purpose, water-soluble fertilizer once every month during spring and summer. Apply the fertilizer at a rate of 1 tablespoon mixed in 1 gallon of water. Always water immediately after fertilizing to protect the roots.

Maintenance

• China pinks require regular maintenance to produce lush blooms throughout the season. Pinch the growing tips of young plants once or twice early in the season to promote bush growth. To pinch, remove about 1 inch from the tips of stem, pinching just above a leaf or bud. Remove flowers as soon as they wilt to prevent the plant from setting seed early. Cut China pinks down to about half their height in midsummer if the blooming declines and the plants look tired and leggy.

Pests

• Although China pinks are relatively pest-resistant, slugs and snails often like to chew on the tender foliage. Prevent problems by keeping the area around the plant free of leaves and other plant debris. Limit mulch to less than 3 inches, since mulch provides a warm, moist hiding place for slugs and snails. If the infestation is light, pick the pests off by hand when they are active in the evening or early morning. Otherwise, sprinkle a commercial slug bait on the soil around the plant if the infestation is heavy. Use the bait at a rate of 1 teaspoon per square yard of planting area.