Carnation Dianthus 'Pennine Treasure' (b)

Water

For Dianthus 'Pennine Treasure', commonly known as Cheddar Pink, it is important to maintain consistently moist soil without overwatering. Water the plant thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically means watering every one to two weeks, depending on the climate and soil drainage. Use a gentle stream of water to soak the soil around the plant, being careful to avoid wetting the foliage which can promote disease. In terms of quantity, provide about one gallon of water every 7 to 10 days during active growth in spring and summer. Adjust the watering frequency and amount during cooler months when the plant is not actively growing, ensuring soil remains slightly moist but not waterlogged.

Light

Cheddar Pink thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. The ideal location for this plant is a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day, preferably morning sun with some afternoon shade to protect from the intense heat of the day. Well-lit areas that offer bright, indirect sunlight can also be suitable, ensuring the vibrant colors of the blooms are maintained.

Temperature

Cheddar Pink prefers a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 50°F and 85°F. While it can tolerate temperatures as low as the high 30s°F for brief periods, prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can be harmful. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth and flowering. It is important to protect the plant from extreme heat or cold to prevent stress and damage.

Pruning

Pruning Cheddar Pink is important to encourage a bushy growth habit and to maintain a tidy appearance. Remove spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season. Pruning is best done after the main flowering period has ended, typically done in late summer or early fall. Cutting back the plant by one-third of its height will help to stimulate new growth and prepare it for the next blooming cycle.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for the Pinks (Dianthus) is well-draining, sandy loam with plenty of organic matter, ensuring a neutral to slightly alkaline pH of 6.75 to 7.5.

Repotting

Pinks (Dianthus) typically do not require frequent repotting and can be done every two to three years, or as needed if the plant outgrows its container.

Humidity & Misting

Pinks (Dianthus) prefer average to low humidity levels and do well in outdoor conditions with natural air circulation.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light and good air flow for indoor Pinks.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, in well-drained soil for outdoor Pinks.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA.

Life cycle

The life cycle of the Dianthus 'Pennine Treasure', commonly known as Dianthus, begins with seed germination, where the seeds require a well-drained soil mix and a stable temperature to sprout. Once germinated, the seedlings grow into young plants with characteristic bluish-green leaves and must be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions if started indoors. As the plants mature, they develop a sturdy root system and a clumping growth habit, with flowering typically occurring in late spring to early summer, showcasing fragrant, vibrant blooms that attract pollinators. After the blooming period, the Dianthus 'Pennine Treasure' may produce seeds, which can be collected for propagation or left to self-sow if conditions are favorable. To maintain vigor, the plants should be deadheaded to encourage further blooming and to prevent excessive self-seeding. Finally, as perennial plants, they will enter a period of dormancy in the winter, where they conserve energy before resuming growth in the spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Dianthus 'Pennine Treasure', commonly known as a variety of Garden Pink, is typically propagated through cuttings, particularly during early summer when the plant's growth is most vigorous. To propagate through cuttings, a gardener should select a healthy non-flowering shoot and cut a piece about 3 to 4 inches in length (approximately 7.5 to 10 centimeters). It is important to make a clean cut just below a node, the point on the stem where leaves emerge. After removing the lower leaves, the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. The prepared cutting can then be inserted into a pot filled with a mix of sand and peat to provide good drainage and moisture retention. The cutting needs to be kept in bright, indirect sunlight and maintained at a consistent moisture level until the roots have established, which typically takes several weeks. After rooting, the young plant can be transplanted to a more permanent location in the garden or container.