Dianthus Scent First ‘Candy Floss’
£6.45
Upright stems carry sprays of highly-scented, double, soft-pink ruffled flowers from May to July. Ideal planted in a patio container to enjoy the wonderful perfume. Height and Spread 30cm. Full sun. Hardy.
Description
Dianthus Scent First ‘Candy Floss’ is a compact, highly scented perennial producing double, soft-pink ruffled flowers from May to July. Growing to 30cm tall and wide, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Perfect for patio containers or adding a splash of fragrance to borders, it is hardy and low-maintenance, delighting gardens with its charming blooms.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
- Spring: The ideal time to plant Dianthus Scent First ‘Candy Floss’ is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This helps the roots establish quickly, ensuring a strong and healthy start to the growing season.
- Autumn: You can also plant Dianthus in early autumn. This allows the plant to settle before winter, promoting vigorous growth and blooms in the following season.
Site Selection
- Sunlight: Dianthus Scent First ‘Candy Floss’ thrives in full sun. Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to maximise flower production and fragrance.
- Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Dianthus. Avoid waterlogged conditions by incorporating organic matter such as compost to improve drainage and fertility.
Planting Instructions
- Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This gives your Dianthus room to spread its roots comfortably.
- Soil Preparation: Mix compost or well-rotted organic matter into the soil to enrich nutrients and improve drainage.
- Planting: Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently and firm the soil to eliminate air pockets.
- Watering After Planting: Water Dianthus Scent First ‘Candy Floss’ thoroughly after planting to help the roots settle. Ensure the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Requirements
- Growing Season: Once established, Dianthus is moderately drought-tolerant. Water during dry periods, allowing the soil to dry slightly between sessions. Avoid overwatering to prevent root problems.
- Dormant Season: Reduce watering in the dormant season. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry, as Dianthus requires minimal moisture during this period.
Feeding
- Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to give Dianthus Scent First ‘Candy Floss’ a healthy start. This encourages strong growth and vibrant blooms.
- Mid-Summer: A light feed in mid-summer can prolong flowering and maintain vigour throughout the blooming season.
Pruning
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers from your Dianthus to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a neat appearance.
- Autumn Pruning: After flowering ends, cut back to ground level. This prepares the plant for dormancy and promotes healthier growth in the next season.
Mulching
- Spring: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of your Dianthus to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Winter: Mulching helps protect roots from cold and prevents frost heaving, ensuring it survives through to the next growing season.
Supporting the Plant
- Dianthus Scent First ‘Candy Floss’ has compact stems and generally does not need staking. In exposed areas, light staking may prevent wind damage.
Final Tips
Dianthus Scent First ‘Candy Floss’ is a low-maintenance perennial that fills containers and borders with scented, double pink flowers from May to July. By planting it in full sun, well-drained soil, and following this care guide, this Dianthus will reward you with a long-lasting display of fragrance and colour.
Additional information
Pot Size | |
---|---|
Plant Botanical Type | Perennial (herbaceous) |
Flower Colour | Pink |
Leaf Colour | Green |
Varigated Leaf | No |
Scent | Yes |
Height | 0.3m |
Spread | 0.3m |
Blooms/foliage interest in | Spring, Summer, Autumn |
Evergreen | No |
Hardiness | Hardy to -10C |
Container | Borders and Containers |
Sun/shade | Full sun, tolerates partial shade |
Soil Type | Loam (normal) |
Soil PH | Neutral |
Drainage | Well drained soil |
Hazerdous | No |
Insect Attraction | Bees |
Michael (verified owner) –
Marion Clamp (verified owner) –
Lovely Company, Lovely People. Plant arrived in First Class Condition