How to Cut a Dianthus to the Ground

Carnations, maiden pinks or sweet William are just a few names given to dianthus (Dianthus spp.). These prolifically blooming summer flowers usually are perennial, although some are so short-lived they are treated as annuals. Dianthus grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 through 11 depending on the variety. The plants sometimes become woody or leggy at mid season, necessitating a hard prune to return them to their former glory. A proper trim also helps them survive winter intact.

Shears

Instructions

- 1
  Cut back the plants to 1 to 2 inches above the soil surface after they finish their first flush of blooms if the plants appear leggy or become woody. Avoid cutting into the crown of the plants, where the stems join with the root system, and leave the lower foliage in place.
- 2
  Spread 1 to 2 inches of compost on top the soil, beneath the remaining foliage. Water the bed until the top 6 inches of soil feels moist but not wet. Continue to water about once weekly, providing enough to moisten the top 6 inches of soil but avoid overwatering, which leads to soggy soil.
- 3
  Pinch off the dead flowers after each subsequent bloom cycle to encourage more flowers and prevent future legginess. Alternatively, cut the dianthus back by up to half its height after each cycle completes.
- 4
  Prune back perennial dianthus to within 2 inches of the ground after the first frost kills back the foliage. Remove any remaining leaves from the plants. Dispose of the removed foliage so it doesn't harbor pests or diseases over winter.

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