GENERAL INFORMATION
Scientific Name: Dianthus hybrida
CommonName: China Pinks, Cheddar Pinks
Hardiness Zone: 4b - 9a
Hardiness Degree: -25°F (-25°C)
Blooming Season: Early Spring, Spring, Late Spring, Summer, Autumn, Late Summer
Plant Habit: Mounded
Characteristics: Attracts Butterflies, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant Flowers, Low Maintenance, Frost Tolerant
Water: Light
Fertilizer: Once a month
Spacing: 12 - 14" (30 - 36cm)
Height: 6 - 8" (15 - 20cm)
Width: 10 - 12" (25 - 30cm)
Exposure: Sun
PROPAGATION
Media EC/pH: EC 0.80 mmhos/pH 5.8-6.2
Soil Temperature: 68-70°F (20-21°C)
Rooting Hormone: 500 ppm IBA
Mist: Very low
Fertilization: 50 ppm N starting at Day 7
Pinching: Pinch to remove any flower buds.
Transplanting: 42-49 days after sticking
FINISHING
Media pH: 5.8-6.2
Temperature: 45 to 60°F (7 to 16°C)
Light Level (fc): 3,000 to 5,000
Vernalization: Beneficial for an increased quantity of Spring blooms.
Daylength: Day length neutral
Watering: Low to moderate
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer at a rate of 125 to 150 ppm N.
Pinch After Transplant: No
Plant Growth Regulators: PGRs generally not needed
Pests and Fungal Diseases: Thrips, carnation mottle virus
CROP SCHEDULING
1–qt. (10–cm) pot, 1 plant per pot: 18-20 wks, including 6 wks below 50°F (10°C)
1–gal. (15–cm) pot, 1 plant per pot: 18-20 wks, including 6 wks below 50°F (10°C)
2 to 3–gal. (25 to 30–cm) pot, 3 plants per pot: Not recommended
Bloom Months: March to October