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GrowerFacts Dianthus (Dianthus chinensis x barbatus)
Germination Light is required for germination. Use a well-drained, disease-free medium with a pH of 5.8 to 6.2, and EC about 0.75 mmhos/cm. Cover the seed with a medium layer of coarse grade vermiculite at sowing. It takes about 3 to 4 days to germinate. Plug Production Plug Tray Size Best produced in 406-cell size plug trays. Sowing Use a well-drained, disease-free medium with a pH of 5.8 to 6.2, and EC about 0.75 mmhos/cm. Cover the seed with a medium layer of coarse grade vermiculite at sowing. It takes about 3 to 4 days to germinate. Temperature Germination: 64 to 68°F (18 to 20°C) Cotyledon emergence: 65 to 70°F (18 to 21°C) days, 60°F (15°C) nights True leaf expansion: 60°F (15°C) days, 55°F (13°C) nights Light Light is required for germination. Humidity Maintain 95 to 97% relative humidity during germination until the cotyledons emerge. Fertilization Beginning at Stage 3, fertilize 2 times per week with 50 ppm N.
Increase the nitrogen concentration to 100 ppm after 1 week, and continue this program until the plugs are finished. Maintain the EC at 0.5 to 0.75 mmhos/cm and increase to 1.0 mmhos/cm at Stages 3 and 4. Maintain pH at 5.8 to 6.2 throughout. Growth Regulators Treat 3 week-old plugs with a foliar spray of Bonzi at 6 ppm for toning. One application in the plug stage is sufficient. Plug Production Time Allow 4 to 5 weeks in 406-cell plug trays. Growing On to Finish Container Size Best grown in packs and 6-in. (15-cm) pots or gallons with 3 plants per pot. Media Use a well-drained, disease-free soilless medium with a medium initial nutrient charge and a pH of 5.8 to 6.5. Temperature Provide 60 to 75°F (15 to 24°C) days and 50 to 60°F (11 to 15°C) nights. Fertilization After plants are established, apply a calcium-based fertilizer or 15-5-15 at 150 ppm, 1 to 2 times per week. Dianthus require adequate calcium in their fertilization program. Growth Regulators Foliar sprays of 20 ppm Bonzi can be applied 2 to 3 times to control height. The frequency of application is determined by the rate of plant growth, time of the year and location.
First application can be done 2 weeks after transplant, followed by subsequent applications at weekly interval.
Crop Scheduling (from sow to flower) Late Spring/Early Summer: 9 to 10 weeks Late Summer/Winter: 12 to 13 weeks