Fringed Pink

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) needs at least 1-2 inches of water each week, but it doesn’t like to be drought-stressed or overly-saturated. Keeping the soil slightly damp with even, consistent moisture will encourage healthy growth. In areas of high humidity or standing water, reduce watering frequency and increase drainage with amending soils and building raised beds. Fringed pink is sensitive to over-watering, and it is best to err on the side of under-watering.

Fringed Pink (Dianthus superbus) is a very sun-loving perennial, preferring to be in full sun to partial shade. When planted in a garden, fringed pink should be in an area with full morning sun and afternoon shade, or at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight each day. It can do well in the full shade, but the blooming may be reduced or stunt the growth of the foliage.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) does best in cooler temperatures around 60° - 70° F (15.5° - 21° C), but it can take mild frosts as long as it is covered. It cannot tolerate extreme high temperatures while still blooming as the flowers will wilt quickly. When planting in warm climates, choose a spot with good air circulation and protection from the afternoon sun to ensure a long flowering period.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) thrives best at a humid level of 40-60%. It can tolerate a high-humidity garden if it has adequate air circulation, but humidity should be monitored closely so that it does not become too damp. When humidity levels become excessive, fungal diseases may attack the foliage, which can be avoided with proper air ventilation, good drainage, and an anti-fungal spray.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) grows well in a well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline. The pH level should be around 6.5 to 7.5. If the soil is too acidic, peat moss can be added to help raise the pH. The soil should have a loose texture, and can be amended with organic matter and/or compost for added nutrients.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) benefits greatly from regular fertilization with an all purpose, slow release fertilizer. It should be applied in early spring when new growth begins, and again in mid-summer for a bloom boost. Make sure the fertilizer is low in nitrogen so it does not promote too much leafy growth at the expense of the blooms. Watering the fertilizer in immediately after application will help it absorb into the soil more quickly.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) is relatively pest-free, but can be prone to spider mites in conditions of low humidity. If spider mites are present, treating with insecticidal soap can give good control of these pests. It can also be affected by aphids, thrips, and sawflies, but these can all be managed with applications of insecticides or horticultural oils. Foliar diseases such as powdery mildew can ruin the foliage of fringed pink, and should be treated with a fungicide.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) needs to be repotted when it starts to outgrow the current container it’s in. It’s best to wait until mid- to late spring when the plant is most actively growing, and give it a little more room in a slightly larger container, with fresh, sterile potting soil. It may also benefit from a top dressing with organic matter such as compost or leaf mold.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) should be pruned back to the ground after flowering to encourage reblooming and to keep the plant looking tidy. After pruning, it is best to cut back by one-third to promote strong, compact growth. However, if any foliage has become affected by pests or disease, it is best to prune out the entire affected area. It will benefit from a light pruning such as clipping off dead blooms and the occasional deadheading of faded flowers to maintain even growth.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) benefits from mulching with organic materials such as compost or leaf mold, to help retain moisture in the soil during the warmer months and protect the roots during the colder months. If your area experiences unusually cold winters, an extra layer of mulch could help protect your fringed pink from frost damage.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) can be propagated by seed in the late spring, as soon as the danger of frost has passed. Sow the seeds directly onto the surface of the soil, and lightly water in. The seeds will germinate in 10-20 days, and will need to be thinned as they grow. Division in the spring or early fall is also a good option for propagating fringed pink, by splitting the clump into several sections and transplanting them into individual containers.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) does not need any kind of support, but can have it added as needed for aesthetic purposes. A simple stake or trellis can be used, but no additional staking should be necessary as the plant’s foliage is strong and dense enough to support its own weight.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) needs a period of dormancy in the late fall, and should be cut back to the ground and fertilized in late autumn. This will encourage new growth in the spring and make sure that the plant is properly nourished to survive any cold winter weather.

Fringed pink (Dianthus superbus) is not toxic to pets, but may cause irritation if ingested. It is best to keep pets away from the plant as certain components of it can be can be potentially harmful if eaten.