How to propagate Dianthus

Sowing method

First of all, the most suitable germination temperature for dianthus seeds is 21~22℃, so it usually takes place in September. Prepare the potting soil and water it thoroughly the day before.

Dianthus seeds are small and easy to germinate, so the step of soaking the seeds can be omitted. Spread the seeds evenly on the potting soil, then cover with a layer of washed sand and water it a little (don't water it too much, as it has already been watered before).

The seeds will germinate 5 days after sowing and seedlings will grow in about 10 days. The temperature should be controlled at 10~20℃. When the seedlings grow 4 to 5 leaves, they can be transplanted and replanted in September of the following year.

Cutting propagation

Cuttings are usually taken in October or February to March, and it is recommended to be done indoors in northern regions.

Remove the strong and slightly woody branches from the middle part of the plant, 6 to 9 cm long, and insert them into the potting soil. As for flower pots and soil, there are no special requirements. Adding some vermiculite can increase water retention. After cutting, control the temperature at 10~13℃ and it will take root in about 20 days. During the cutting process, if the indoor temperature and humidity are low, you can put a plastic bag on the flower pot to keep it moist.

After the seedlings survive, they should be topped off in time to promote branching and apply more fertilizer. Once a week, apply a thin liquid fertilizer to promote growth and abundant flowering. If properly maintained, it will bloom the following year after cuttings.

Propagation by division

Division refers to the use of old plants for reproduction, which is carried out in autumn or early spring.

Remove the plant from the pot, take out the soil from the roots, and divide the old plant into equal parts by hand, with 2 to 3 plants in each clump. If tillers grow from the roots, you can break them off and plant them.

If you divide the plants in early spring, you should focus on watering in summer to ensure that the soil in the pot is moist but not waterlogged; after September, apply fertilizer and water, and the plants will basically bloom in October. It is also important to note that the roots of newly divided plants are damaged and have not yet recovered, so do not use concentrated fertilizer or large amounts of water, as this can easily burn the roots.

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