PLANT OF THE WEEK Ideal Magical Mix Dianthus

Botanical name: Dianthus interspecific hybrids.
Attributes: Five vibrant colors make up this excellent Dianthus mix, which is almost magical in its uniform bloom time and growth habit. Ideal Magical Mix is more heat tolerant than other Dianthus but also is very cold-hardy. It is ideal for fall planting, and with a winter mulching should bloom again in early spring. Although it is seldom used in a fall planting, it is worth trying in small plots or containers.
Bloom color: Red and white, red, rose, pink and white.
Culture: Purchase well-budded or blooming plants in October. Plant in a flower border or in a color bowl for a deck or porch using moist, fertile soil with good drainage. Plants reach 8 inches in height and spread 8 to 12 inches. Place in full sun or part shade. Avoid heavy feeding with ammonia-based fertilizers. Remove old flowers to encourage continual bloom. When ground freezes, mulch with wood chips or ground leaves. Remove mulch in mid-March to encourage new growth and bloom.
Landscaping tips: In color bowls, use red and pink varieties with White Innocense Nemesia and Delta Blue Pansies. Plant white colors with mums or asters in complementary colors.
Cost: $1.20 to $4 depending on number of plants and size of pack. Available at local garden centers or nurseries.
Source: Powell Gardens