Carnation Dianthus 'Kesteven Kirkstead' (p)

Water

Carnations, including Dianthus 'Kesteven Kirkstead', prefer to be watered deeply but infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions to prevent root rot. On average, watering about once a week with one to one and a half gallons of water per plant is usually sufficient, though this can vary based on temperature and humidity conditions. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler, wetter weather, less frequent watering is needed. It's best to water in the morning to allow excess moisture on the foliage to evaporate during the day.

Light

Carnations thrive best in full sunlight. Place Dianthus 'Kesteven Kirkstead' in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Although they can tolerate light shade, too little light may result in leggy plants and fewer blooms. The ideal spot would be one that gets unfiltered morning light and some protection from the intense rays of the afternoon sun.

Temperature

Carnations prefer temperatures between 60 to 70°F for optimum growth, which is ideal for Dianthus 'Kesteven Kirkstead'. They can tolerate a range from nearly freezing temperatures up to about 85°F. However, they are not suited to extreme heat or cold and should be protected if temperatures are expected to go above or drop below this range.

Pruning

Carnations, including Dianthus 'Kesteven Kirkstead', benefit from pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to stimulate new blooms. In early spring, cut back the plants by one-third to promote fresh, strong stems. Pruning is best done after the blooming season, though light pruning can be done throughout to maintain shape.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The ideal soil mix for the garden Pink (Dianthus 'Kesteven Kirkstead') is well-draining, loamy, and slightly alkaline with a pH range of 6.7 to 7.5. Amend with compost and perlite for optimum growth.

Repotting

Garden Pinks should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container, usually during spring or fall.

Humidity & Misting

Garden Pinks prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable and can tolerate drier air typical of most home environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in sunny spot, use well-draining soil, water sparingly.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from extreme wet.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Dianthus 'Kesteven Kirkstead' begins with seed germination, where warmth and light trigger the emergence of a small seedling. Following germination, the seedling enters the vegetative stage, developing stems, leaves, and a root system. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, producing vibrant flowers that are characteristic of the Dianthus genus, typically in late spring or early summer. After pollination, possibly involving insects attracted by the flowers’ scent and color, the flowers will produce seeds. These seeds will eventually be dispersed, naturally or through human intervention, leading to new generation of plants. The plant will then go into a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, where growth and metabolic activity slow down during the fall and winter months until conditions become favorable again for the next cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Dianthus 'Kesteven Kirkstead', commonly known as "pinks" due to the frilled or pinked margins of their flowers, can be propagated through the division of clumps. The best time to carry out this process is in the early spring when the plant is just coming out of dormancy or in late autumn when the plant's growth has slowed. To propagate by division, carefully dig up and lift the plant from the ground, ensuring you preserve as much of the root system as possible. Gently separate the clumps into smaller sections, each with a portion of the roots intact, using your hands or a sharp knife if necessary. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at before, and water well. This is a simple way to create new plants that will be genetically identical to the parent plant and will usually flower in the following growing season.