A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Caring for Large Pinks

In the enchanting world of cottage and cutting gardens, the large pinks, scientifically known as Dianthus superbus, reign supreme. These delightful flowers are cherished for their aromatic scent and vibrant blooms that float above silvery-green foliage, creating an enchanting spectacle in the garden.

With colors ranging from burgundy to lilac, pink, scarlet, and white, the feathery flowers of large pinks are a sight to behold. Their long stems, fragrant blossoms, and robust nature make them a versatile addition to beds, borders, containers, rockeries, and various garden styles like butterfly, courtyard, gravel, and zen gardens.

Large pinks bloom vigorously from late spring to midsummer, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies while deterring deer. Their self-seeding nature ensures a continuous display of colorful flowers, making them a favorite among gardeners.

If you’re looking for ornamental plants that are easy to grow, fragrant, and visually stunning, large pinks are the perfect choice. Sit back, relax, and let’s delve into the world of planting and caring for these delightful flowers.

What You’ll Learn:

Table of Contents

What Are Large Pinks?
Cultivation and History
Propagation
How to Grow
Growing Tips
Pruning and Maintenance
Cultivars to Select
Managing Pests and Disease
Best Uses
Quick Reference Growing Guide

What Are Large Pinks?

Large pinks, or Dianthus superbus, are cold-hardy, herbaceous perennials native to northern Asia and Europe. Also known as superb or fringed pinks, they boast shaggy, deeply fringed flowers in shades of crimson, lilac, and white, contrasted by mounds of blue-green foliage. These flowers grow on upright stems, emanating a sweet, spicy scent that beckons beneficial pollinators.

Thriving in cooler temperatures, large pinks are perfect for rockeries and woodland borders, providing a burst of color in late spring and early summer. These versatile plants adapt well to rocky soils, display drought tolerance, and self-release seeds for effortless propagation.

Cultivation and History:

The name Dianthus, derived from Greek words meaning “divine flower,” captures the essence of these heavenly blossoms. Large pinks have a rich history of ornamental use and traditional medicinal practices, although they contain mild toxins harmful to humans and pets.

Known for their captivating colors, fragrant perfume, and whimsical petals, large pinks are a classic choice for garden enthusiasts. Their intense scent, reminiscent of sweet cloves, fills the air during the tranquil hours of morning and dusk.

Propagation:

Large pinks can be propagated through seed sowing, stem cuttings, or direct sowing. Starting seeds early indoors ensures flowers in the first year, while outdoor sowing provides blooms for the following season. Stem cuttings taken after flowering can be rooted for future planting. Collecting and storing seeds for late summer sowing is another viable propagation method.

How to Grow:

For optimal growth, large pinks prefer humus-rich, well-drained soil with neutral to alkaline pH. Plant them in full sun or partial shade, providing ample water during the initial growing season. Once established, these plants display drought tolerance, requiring minimal watering during dry periods.

Growing Tips:

Improve drainage by incorporating sand or gravel into the soil.
Elevate planting in clay soils to enhance drainage.
Water plants weekly in the absence of rain during the establishment phase.

Pruning and Maintenance:

To promote reblooming and maintain a neat appearance, deadhead or shear plants after flowering. Apply organic compost or fertilizer in early spring to boost plant health. Large pinks are short-lived perennials that benefit from periodic rejuvenation through self-seeding or stem cuttings.

Cultivars to Select:

Explore a range of cultivars to enhance your garden’s appeal:

Ambrosia: Features wispy flowers in lilac, pink, and white hues.
Kahori Pink: Boasts bright pink flowers with serrated petals.
Kahori Scarlet: Showcases red flowers with fine fringes.
Rainbow Loveliness: Offers blooms in a rainbow of colors.
Spooky: Presents weeping blooms in various shades.

Managing Pests and Disease:

While large pinks are resilient, they can fall prey to crown rot and rust fungi in unfavorable conditions. Effective management involves ensuring proper drainage, promoting airflow, and controlling pests like aphids and spider mites through natural or organic methods.

Best Uses:

Large pinks are versatile plants suitable for borders, containers, rockeries, and various garden styles. Their drought tolerance makes them ideal for dry or rocky soils, while their vibrant blooms add charm to butterfly, cottage, and cutting gardens. Plant them strategically to savor their delightful fragrance and vibrant colors.

Quick Reference Growing Guide:

Plant Type: Short-lived flowering perennial
Flower/Foliage Color: Burgundy, carmine, mauve, pink, scarlet, white/silvery glaucous green
Hardiness (USDA Zone): 3-9
Exposure: Full sun
Height: 6-24 inches
Spread: 12-20 inches
Water Needs: Moderate
Best Uses: Beds, borders, containers, rockeries, cottage, courtyard, cutting gardens

Simply Superb:

Large pinks, with their cheerful colors and captivating fragrance, add a touch of magic to any garden. Easy to grow and maintain, these delightful flowers thrive in various settings, enchanting all who encounter them. Bring a burst of color and fragrance to your garden with the enchanting large pinks.

Do you have a favorite variety of Dianthus superbus? Share your experiences in the comments below, and let the enchanting world of large pinks inspire your gardening adventures!