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Dianthus

Dianthus barbatus

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Dianthus barbatus, commonly known as Sweet William, produces clusters of fragrant, colorful flowers in shades of pink, red, white, and bicolors on sturdy stems. This hardy biennial or short-lived perennial blooms prolifically in late spring and early summer and self-seeds readily in gardens. It is low-maintenance, drought-tolerant once established, and attracts pollinators.

Dianthus

Common Problems

Select the problem your Dianthus is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Yellow Leaveschevron_right
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Root Rotchevron_right
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Wiltingchevron_right
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Brown Spotschevron_right
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Overwateringchevron_right
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Slow Growthchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light
Full sun to partial shade; requires 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
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Water
Water moderately; keep soil consistently moist during growing season but allow to dry between waterings. Reduce watering after flowering.
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Soil
Well-draining, fertile soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5–7.5). Amend with compost or peat moss.
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Fertiliser
Light feeding in spring with balanced fertilizer (10–10–10); reduce nitrogen to avoid excess foliage at expense of flowers.
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Temperature
Hardy biennial tolerating 30–75°F (-1–24°C); prefers cool conditions and is highly cold-tolerant.
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Humidity
Moderate humidity (40–60%); ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues. Avoid overhead watering.

Toxicity

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Non-toxic to cats, dogs, and children; completely safe for all households.

Common Diseases

coronavirusRoot Rotchevron_rightcoronavirusLeaf Spotchevron_rightcoronavirusPowdery Mildewchevron_right

Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.