Dianthus Raspberry Ripple (Carnation) - 50 seeds

Planting information to grow Dianthus from seed

Plant type: biannual to short-lived perennial
Height: flowers grow 50-60 centimeters tall
Position: full sun or partial shade
Planting time: Late winter to autumn
Bloom time: starts 120 days - 1 year after sowing
Spacing: 30 centimeters between each plant
Germination: Takes 14-21 days in temperatures of 15-20°C
Pinching/pruning: not needed for seedlings
Flowers: May, June July, depending on the weather
Pollinator-friendly: Yes
Recommended seed tray or pot: start in 77 or 40 cell trays (4-5 cm) and if needed pot up to 15-cell trays (7-9cm) or P9 flower pots
The package contains: 50 seeds

How to Grow Dianthus from Seed

Dianthus caryphyllis, commonly known as Carnations, is a biennial that brings a delightful splash of color to your garden. To enjoy its blooms next spring, start by sowing the seeds in the summer, around June or July. This timing allows the plants to develop foliage and roots in preparation for next season’s blooms. Late winter sowings (February to March) may flower in their first year.

Start the seeds in seed trays filled with high-quality seed compost. Lightly press the seeds into the soil without burying them too deeply. Keep the soil lightly moist but not waterlogged by watering the base of the tray to avoid washing away the seeds. Place the seed trays in a location with good light but not direct sunlight; a greenhouse or a bright windowsill works well.

Once the seedlings have grown and the end of summer approaches, transplant them to their final location in the garden, spacing them appropriately to allow for full growth.

Dianthus caryphyllis is hardy down to -15 to 20°C but does not do well on wet soil. This variety does well when sown in February.

Biennials like Dianthus fill the gap between spring-flowering bulbs and summer-flowering annuals, adding volume to your garden in late summer and autumn while building strength for abundant blooms next season.