Dianthus 'Pinks Scent First Sugar Plum' - 6 x Plug Plants
Not Available
Currently unavailable
Currently out of stock
This product is not available at the moment. Check back later or explore other options below.
Product Information
Full details
This guide is for home gardeners looking to add fragrant, colorful, and pollinator-friendly blooms to their gardens, especially in containers or borders. The key benefit is its reliable, long-lasting flowering period coupled with a delightful clove-like scent. A potential caveat is that plug plants require initial care to establish. The Dianthus 'Pinks Scent First Sugar Plum' offers masses of soft pink, clove-scented flowers with deeper plum centers, featuring compact, evergreen blue-green foliage. It is ideal for borders, containers, and gravel gardens, attracting bees and beneficial insects while also being suitable for cut flowers.
All features
| Model Part Number | Pinks Scent First Sugar Plum |
|---|---|
| Brand | Marshalls Garden |
Extended Product Information
FAQs
When is the best time to plant Dianthus 'Pinks Scent First Sugar Plum' plug plants?
Plug plants are best planted out as soon as they arrive, typically in spring or early autumn, provided the ground is not frozen.
How often should I water my Sugar Plum dianthus?
Water regularly, especially during dry periods and when the plant is establishing or in a container. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Good drainage is crucial.
Can this dianthus survive the winter outdoors?
Yes, Dianthus 'Pinks Scent First Sugar Plum' is a hardy perennial and can typically overwinter outdoors in the UK. Container plants may benefit from some winter protection in very harsh climates.
What is the fragrance like?
The flowers have a distinct, spicy, clove-like fragrance that is particularly noticeable on warm days.
Will this plant attract bees?
Yes, its nectar-rich blooms are very attractive to bees and other beneficial pollinators.
How tall does this plant grow?
It forms a compact clump, typically reaching a height of around 20-30 cm (8-12 inches).
Can I grow this in a shaded area?
While it tolerates some light shade, it performs best and flowers most profusely in full sun. Growth and flowering may be reduced in heavy shade.
Troubleshooting
Plug plants wilting shortly after arrival
Ensure plug plants have been thoroughly soaked and are planted in moist, well-draining soil. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight immediately after planting; provide partial shade for the first few days if necessary.
Lack of flowering
Ensure the plant is receiving adequate sunlight (at least 6 hours per day). Regular deadheading of faded blooms will encourage more flowers. Check for adequate watering – too little or too much can inhibit flowering.
Yellowing leaves
This can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil is not constantly wet. If drainage is poor, consider repotting or amending the soil with grit. It can also indicate a nutrient deficiency; a light feed might help.
Pest infestation (e.g., aphids)
Inspect plants regularly. Aphids can often be washed off with a strong jet of water or treated with insecticidal soap. Encourage natural predators like ladybirds.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Delightful clove-like fragrance enhances garden atmosphere.
- Long-lasting blooms provide extended color and visual appeal.
- Compact size is ideal for smaller spaces and container gardening.
- Attracts beneficial pollinators like bees.
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round interest.
- Suitable for cut flowers, bringing scent indoors.
Cons
- Requires free-draining soil to prevent root rot.
- Plug plants need initial careful watering and establishment.
- May require deadheading to encourage further flowering.
- Best performance in a sunny location, may struggle in shade.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup:
- Soaking Plug Plants: Upon arrival, soak the plug plant roots in water for about 15-20 minutes until the compost is fully saturated. This rehydrates them.
- Preparing the Soil: Choose a location that receives full sun. Ensure the soil is free-draining. Amend heavy clay soils with grit or compost to improve drainage. It tolerates chalk, loam, or sand.
- Planting: Plant the plug plants in their prepared spots or containers, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Space them according to plant labels, usually 15-25cm apart.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the initial establishment phase.
Compatibility:
- Soil Types: Adaptable to chalk, loam, and sand, provided drainage is adequate.
- Companion Planting: Pairs well with other drought-tolerant perennials, herbs, and low-growing shrubs.
- Container Growing: Excellent for pots, window boxes, and hanging baskets.
Care:
- Watering: Water regularly during dry spells, particularly for container-grown plants. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Deadheading: Remove spent flowers regularly by snipping them off at the stem. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms and prolongs the flowering season.
- Feeding: A light feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer in spring can be beneficial, but it is not essential if planted in good soil.
- Pruning: After flowering, trim back any leggy stems to maintain a compact shape. Evergreen foliage can be tidied in spring if needed.
- Overwintering: It is a hardy perennial and generally overwinters well outdoors in the UK. Protection may be needed in extremely harsh conditions, especially for containerized plants.