dianthus

Water your Dianthus 'Heart's Desire' deeply and slowly, at least once a week. Before watering, check the soil to ensure it is not too moist. If the soil is still wet, wait a few days to allow the soil to dry out more. During the summer months, water more frequently, as Dianthus plants enjoy sitting in constantly moist soil during this time. In the wintertime, water less often, as Dianthus plants go semi-dormant during this season and do not need as much water.

Dianthus 'Heart's Desire' does best in sunny spots, where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct light each day. Morning sunlight is best, as it can burn the leaves if exposed to strong afternoon sun. A spot with some light shade in the afternoon is ideal for this species. Avoid deeply shaded areas as they don’t get enough light for Dianthus 'Heart's Desire' to thrive.

Dianthus 'Heart's Desire' can be pruned once a year in late summer or early autumn. To promote new growth in the spring, remove faded flowers and trim back wayward stems to encourage bushiness and maintain a full shape. If desired, deadhead spent flowers for a second flush of bloom in mid- to late summer. Pruning should be done after the plant has finished blooming and the stems have hardened off. Overly aggressive pruning can diminish future flower production, so prune judiciously.