Rough draft 10/28/21
Intro
Dianthus is a genus of about 300 species of flowering plants and is native mainly to Europe and Asia. This plant is great for covering bare spots in flower boxes or gardens. It grows mainly in a mound and continually produces popping hot pink flowers from spring into fall. This plant is a perennial which means it will grow and bloom year after year. Other breeds of this plant come in colors of white, red , purple, and hues and shades of pink.
Growing
Easy without a lot of fuss is how this dianthus grows. Pruning is not necessary. The flowers are a long 2 season bloom which can add color where it can be enjoyed. This plant stays in its place by growing in a mound and is considered a tidy plant without the need for pinching or deadheading as it grows. Fragrant flowers are a plus that comes with this plant. Like most fragrant blooming plants this one loves a full sun location. Tip: when combined and added with multiples of this plant it can be planted one after another down a slope for an eye catching swath of color.
Planting
Planting and how to care for dianthus are quite easy for any novice or experienced gardener. Water the plants when dry around the base of the plant. Try to not let water touch the leaves or have them soaking in water because that can cause spotting on the leaves. Apply fertilizer every six to eight weeks. You may also work a slow-release fertilizer into the soil at planting, which will release throughout the growing and blooming season which is May through October. Fertilizer can also promote blooming and keep the blooms coming. Wait until the danger of frost has passed when planting dianthus and place them at the same level they were growing in the pots, with 12 to 18 inches (30-46 cm.) between the plants. Do not mulch around them. They also need well draining soil and at least 6 hours of full sun a day.
Conclusion
A common name for this plant is Sweet William. This flowering and fragrant plant can attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Although the beautiful petals are edible and attractive to pollinators, sweet William leaves are toxic to humans and pets including cats and dogs. If ingested, it may cause vomiting. Wearing gloves while working with the plant is a good rule of thumb, especially if you are interested in tasting the flower. Make sure you pick the flower with clean hands with absolutely not touching the leaves when doing so. If you touch the leaves at any time, be sure to wash and dry your hands thoroughly. The best tip when caring for dianthus is once planted, enjoy from a distance.
Resource links
https://www.bluestoneperennials.com/DIVB.html
https://homeguides.sfgate.com/grow-care-sweet-william-flowers-22444.html