How to Grow Pinks

Starting Dianthus from Seed

• 1). Pinks should be started in a seed tray inside the house or in a greenhouse.
  
  
• 2). Loosen the soil. Sprinkle the small seeds across the surface of the soil. Press lightly into the soil.
  
  
• 3). Sprinkle the soil with water. Pe careful not to get the soil too wet; you just want it damp.
  
  
• 4). Harden the seedlings off before transplanting them in the spring.
  
  

Transplanting Seedlings

• 1). Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots of the seedling and deep enough to accommodate about a third of the stem.
  
  
• 2). Spread out the roots of the seedling and settle into the hole.
  
  
• 3). Firmly but gently, fill the hole in with dirt.
  
  
• 4). Water the seedling regularly until well established.
  
  

Starting Dianthus from Divisions

• 1). Dig up mature plants after the blooming season.
  
  
• 2). Divide the plant by gently separating a portion from the main plant. Be careful to avoid excessive damage to the plant’s roots.
  
  
• 3). Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots and about a third of the division’s stem.
  
  
• 4). Spread out the roots of the division and settle into the hole.
  
  
• 5). Fill the hole with dirt and gently pack in around the plant.
  
  
• 6). Water the transplant until established.
  
  

General Requirements

• 1). Pinks prefer well-drained soil that is not too fertile. They need to be planted in a sunny location.
  
  
• 2). Pinks are prone to red spider mites, which can be eliminated by spraying with horticultural soap.
  
  
• 3). Pinks sometimes get a fungus when the plants are young if they're allowed to become water-logged.