Dianthus Red Gem

Compact low-growing plants with attractive blue-green foliage. A mass of small strong red flowers is produced for several weeks. Ideal for containers, rockeries, or ground cover.

Height:20cm/8″

Flowering Months: July to August

Sowing Months: Februaryto April

Hardiness:Hardy Perennial

Sowing Information:
Sow Dianthus seeds indoors from February to April on the surface of lightly firmed, moist seed compost in pots or trays and cover with a fine sprinkling of compost or vermiculite. Place in a propagator or seal container inside a polythene bag and keep at a temperature of between 18-20C (64-68F). After sowing, do not exclude light as this helps germination. Keep the surface of the compost moist but not waterlogged; germination usually takes 14 – 30 days.

Growing Information:
When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into 7.5cm (3in) pots and grow on in cooler conditions. Gradually acclimatise to cooler conditions for a few weeks before planting out after all risk of frost. Plant at a distance of 23cm (9in) apart on any fertile, well drained soil in full sun.