Pink Kisses Dianthus 'Rose Joy' (p)

Water

Pink Dianthus, also known as Dianthus 'Rose Joy', requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant each time, depending on the soil's ability to retain moisture and the climate. The need for water might be higher during hot, dry spells, where twice-a-week watering could be necessary. Reduce watering in the winter to every two weeks, or when the soil is dry to the touch, to prevent root rot. Always check the top inch of soil before watering; if it's dry, it's time to water.

Light

Pink Dianthus thrives best in full sun conditions, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. It's ideal to place the plant in a south-facing garden spot where it can receive abundant sunshine. If grown indoors, a sunny windowsill that gets plenty of light is a desirable location. Avoiding shaded areas will benefit the plant's growth and flower production.

Temperature

Pink Dianthus prefers cooler temperatures but can tolerate a range from 40 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. While the plant can endure temporary dips below 40 degrees, it's best to avoid exposure to frost and freezing temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Dianthus 'Rose Joy' is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, where the plant can flourish and produce its characteristic flowers.

Pruning

Pink Dianthus should be pruned to promote vigorous growth and maintain an attractive shape. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. After the main bloom period, cut back the stems by one-third to stimulate a second flush of flowers. Pruning should be done with clean, sharp shears to minimize damage to the plant. The best time to conduct a more drastic prune is in early spring, just before new growth starts.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The ideal soil mix for the Dianthus 'Rose Joy', commonly known as the Garden Pinks, should be well-draining with a mix of loam, peat, and sand or perlite. This plant thrives in neutral to slightly alkaline pH levels, between 6.0 and 7.5. A balanced potting mix amended with compost can also support healthy growth.

Repotting

Garden Pinks typically do not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container. It's essential to ensure proper drainage and to refresh the soil mix to provide necessary nutrients.

Humidity & Misting

Garden Pinks prefer average humidity levels and do not require excessively high humidity. The ideal humidity range for optimal growth is between 40% to 60%. These plants adapt well to the humidity levels typically found in homes and gardens.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light, provide good airflow, & use a well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

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

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Dianthus 'Rose Joy', commonly known as Pink Rose Joy, starts its life as a seed, which, when sown, germinates in favorable conditions — well-drained soil, warmth, and sufficient light. Seedlings emerge and grow into juvenile plants with characteristic blue-green foliage and a compact growth habit. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, during which time it develops its full foliage and prepares for flowering. The Pink Rose Joy reaches its reproductive stage in late spring to early summer, producing a profusion of fragrant, double-flowered blooms in shades of pink and rose. After pollination, which can be aided by insects, the flowers fade and the plant forms seed capsules, continuing the cycle if seeds are collected or naturally dispersed. Finally, as a perennial, the Dianthus 'Rose Joy' may go dormant in the winter, depending on the climate, to re-emerge and repeat the cycle in the next growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Dianthus 'Rose Joy', also known as Pinks, can be most effectively propagated through stem cuttings. This popular method is typically done in late spring to early summer, as the plant is actively growing and the stems are succulent. To propagate, select a healthy stem that is about 4 to 6 inches long (10 to 15 centimeters) and cut it just below a node with a sharp, clean knife. Strip the lower leaves and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder to increase the chance of successful rooting. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that at least one node is below the soil surface. The cutting should be kept in a warm place with indirect light and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions.