Fringed Pink Flower Seeds
Fringed Pink Flower Seeds
A delightful fragrance permeates the air from these exquisite blooms. The intricate, lacy flowers, which grace the early spring of the second season, display a spectrum of hues ranging from pink to white. Remarkably easy to cultivate and visually stunning to behold. The term "pink" finds its roots in Old English, where it referred to cutting or notching, alluding to the distinctive serrated edges of the petals. Greek botanist Theophrastus bestowed upon these flowers the genus name Dianthus, signifying "divine flower." In fact, it was this genus that popularized the use of "pink" to denote a color. These enchanting blossoms not only captivate the eye but also fill the surroundings with a heavenly aroma.
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How To Grow
How To Grow
Sowing: Plant the seeds directly into the soil after the last spring frost, ensuring they are placed just below the surface and gently compacting the soil. Alternatively, if starting indoors, sow the seeds in a flat about 6-8 weeks before the last spring frost, again placing them just below the surface of the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a temperature of around 15 degrees Celsius until germination, which typically occurs within 14-20 days. Once the seedlings emerge, thin them out or transplant them as needed.
Growing: This plant is well-suited to dry or rocky soil conditions. Water the seedlings until they establish themselves; mature plants are resilient to drought and generally only require watering during prolonged dry spells. Typically, the plant forms a rosette of leaves in its first season and develops a flowering stalk in the second summer, although it may bloom in the first year if started early. While the plant readily self-seeds, any unwanted volunteer seedlings can be easily removed. It attracts bees and butterflies while also being resistant to deer.
Harvesting
Harvesting
Gathering these blossoms for fresh display is a delightful task. Select the flowers with care, opting for those with just-opened buds and long, sturdy stems. Upon cutting, ensure to trim any foliage that may fall below the waterline when placed in a vase. This practice not only maintains the cleanliness of the water but also enhances the longevity of the blooms. Placing the freshly cut stems into water promptly preserves their vibrancy and ensures they grace your living space with their beauty for an extended period.
Seed Saving
Seed Saving
Seed Saving: As the season draws to a close, observe the maturation of the blossoms as they transition into seed pods. These pods elongate and adopt a dry, brown hue, signaling their readiness for harvest. Upon ripening, the pods split open at the top, revealing the tiny black discs within. To collect the seeds, simply shake the pods over a container, allowing the seeds to fall freely. Once gathered, store the seeds in a cool, dry location to maintain their viability until the next planting season.
Extra Facts
Extra Facts
Fringed Pink Flower Seeds
Latin Name: Dianthus superbus
Species Origin: Asia
Type: Perennial
Life Cycle: Biennial
USDA Zones: 3-9
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 30-60 cm
Color: Pink to white
Blooming Season: Early spring to summer
Uses: Ornamental, cut flowers