Dianthus Diamond

Stage Two (day 8-15) When seedlings emerge, place plug flats in a cool, well-ventilated greenhouse with bright light. Apply a light feed of 75 - 100 ppm from a well-balanced fertilizer to ensure a healthy start.

Stage Three (day 16 - 35) Dianthus tolerates a wide temperature range, but does best at cooler temperatures. For optimum growth, maintain day and night temperatures between 60 - 72 °F / 15 - 22°C. Fertilize at least once a week with 150 - 200 ppm to maintain healthy plants. The use of calcium-based fertilizers will produce strong seedlings and reduce soft growth. Cycocel can be used to control height at a rate of 750 to 1,500 ppm. The use of Cycocel may cause some phytotoxicity, (yellowing of the leaf margins) and will be more pronounced on under-nourished seedlings. Some growers prefer to use Bonzi at 2 - 5 ppm, which is effective and less toxic. If using Bonzi, it is best to wait until the plant canopy covers the plug tray to avoid introducing Bonzi into the media.

Stage Four (day 35) Seedlings are now ready for transplanting to cell packs or pots. It is best not to delay transplanting, but if necessary, maintain plants at 55 - 60 °F / 13 - 15 °C and reduce fertilizer to avoid overgrowth.

Pack and Pot Culture
Transplanting: Select a well-drained media with a pH in the 5.5 to 6.5 range and a low E.C. level of 0.5 to 0.7 mmhos, (2:1 slurry). Dianthus is a soft tissue plant and one should avoid planting the seedlings too deep to prevent stem rot.

Temperature: Dianthus Diamond grows best at 62 - 68o F / 17–20o C.

Fertilizer: Dianthus is not a heavy feeder, but one should fertilize on a regular basis to produce healthy plants. Keep the E.C. level between 0.7 and 1.2 mhos. Avoid using fertilizers that contain high amounts of ammonium nitrate to prevent plant stretch and soft growth; especially under warm temperature conditions.

Growth Regulators: Using culture to control height is recommended. Cool temperatures and a calcium-nitratebased feed program work well to avoid plant stretch and soft growth. Cycocel or Bonzi can also be used to control plant height, (see notes under Stage 3).

Timing: Dianthus Diamond is bred to flower early and will generally bloom in 10 - 12 weeks after sowing. Dianthus Diamond is recommended for both spring and autumn sales.