Upright stems carry an abundance of highly scented, fully double, bright-pink ruffled flowers with a deep-red centre from June to August. Ideal planted in the border or a patio container to enjoy the wonderful perfume. Height and Spread 30cm. Full sun. Hardy.
Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ is a charming perennial with highly scented, double, bright-pink ruffled flowers accented with a deep-red centre. Blooming from June to August, it grows to around 30 cm in height and spread, making it ideal for borders, rock gardens, or patio containers. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your plant thrives and produces its best display.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal season to plant Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ is spring. Warmer soil helps roots settle quickly and establish for the growing season ahead.
Autumn: Planting in early autumn is also suitable, giving roots time to anchor before winter dormancy and preparing the plant for a strong spring revival.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ thrives in full sun, rewarding you with the strongest fragrance and the brightest blooms. Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil: This perennial prefers well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or compacted, amend it with grit or organic compost to improve drainage. Avoid waterlogged areas, as standing water can cause root damage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and equal in depth. This allows the roots of Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ to spread with ease.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enrich fertility and drainage. A light, free-draining mix supports healthy growth.
Planting: Position the plant so that the crown sits level with the soil surface. Backfill gently, firming the soil around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Give Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ a thorough watering after planting. Ensure the soil drains freely to avoid root problems.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Water regularly during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry slightly between sessions. Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ does not enjoy overly wet conditions, so avoid overwatering.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering in the colder months, watering only when the soil is very dry.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to encourage vigorous new shoots and buds.
Mid-Summer: A light top-up feed helps extend the flowering period of Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ and supports strong colour and scent.
Pruning
Deadheading: Remove faded flowers regularly. Deadheading Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ encourages continuous blooms and keeps the plant neat.
End of Season Care: After flowering ends, lightly trim back the foliage to maintain shape and prepare the plant for winter.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a light mulch of compost or fine bark around the base to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and enrich the soil.
Winter: A thin mulch can also help protect the roots during colder spells, ensuring Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ stays healthy into the next season.
Supporting the Plant
With its compact growth and sturdy stems, Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ generally does not require staking. However, in very exposed areas, a small support may prevent damage from wind.
Final Tips
Dianthus ‘Pink Ruffles’ is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial that adds vibrant colour and fragrance to borders, beds, and containers. By planting in full sun, providing well-drained soil, and keeping up with simple care like deadheading and feeding, you’ll enjoy masses of ruffled pink blooms all summer long.
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