Dianthus 'Double Choice' Mix Offers Long-Lasting Color
Dianthus ‘Double Choice Mix’ brings a lively blend of double blooms in shades of pink, red, and white, forming dense mats of color through much of the growing season. This perennial is known for its neat, compact habit and a light, clove-like fragrance that adds charm to any sunny border or rock garden. The tidy foliage remains attractive even when not in bloom, making it a reliable choice for continuous visual appeal. Adaptable and drought-tolerant once established, this mix is both decorative and resilient in a range of garden settings.
Applications in the Garden
Excellent for edging paths, borders, or rock gardens where tidy form is valued
Suitable for container planting or raised beds where drainage is sharp
Works beautifully in cottage gardens or mixed perennial groupings
Provides fragrance and color in small garden spaces or balcony planters
Useful for cutting gardens thanks to its long-lasting flowers
Combines well with silvery foliage plants and other low-growing sun perennials
Planting Tips - Dianthus
Choose a sunny location with well-drained, slightly alkaline soil
Avoid heavy clay or areas that retain water to prevent root rot
Space plants 8–12 inches apart to encourage good air circulation
Water moderately, allowing soil to dry between waterings once established
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering and tidy growth
Apply a light layer of gravel mulch to improve drainage and deter rot at the crown
Plant Biography and Growing Environment
| Botanical Name: | Dianthus Barbatus |
| Variety Name: | Double Choice Mix |
| Height: | 20″ |
| Hardiness Zone: | 3-9 |
| Sun or Shade: | Sun or part shade |
| Plant Classification: | Biennial |
| Planting Season: | Spring |
| Bloom Season: | Spring – Summer |
| Bloom Cycle: | Deadhead for continuous rebloom |
| Bloom Duration: | 2-3 weeks |
| Planting Depth: | 2″-3″ |
| Soil Requirements: | Thrives in loamy, slightly alkaline soil |
| Water Requirements: | Low to average |
Troubleshooting - Dianthus
Yellowing or wilting foliage – usually caused by poor drainage; lift plants and amend soil with grit or sand
Sparse blooms – often due to too little sunlight or nutrient-poor soil; increase light exposure and feed lightly with a balanced fertilizer
Crown rot – occurs in damp, compacted soils; ensure crowns sit slightly above soil level
Weak growth – trim plants lightly after flowering to maintain shape and promote new basal shoots
Pest damage – aphids or slugs may appear; remove manually or treat with insecticidal soap if severe
FAQ - Dianthus
Q: Is Dianthus toxic to pets or people?
A: Yes, Dianthus can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested by pets or people
Q: How long does Dianthus ‘Double Choice Mix’ bloom?
A: It typically blooms from late spring through early summer, with a possible repeat flush in fall if deadheaded regularly
Q: Will Dianthus survive winter outdoors?
A: Yes, it’s a hardy perennial in most regions but benefits from light mulch over the crown in colder climates
Q: Can I grow Dianthus in containers?
A: Absolutely; ensure pots have excellent drainage and use a well-draining soil mix to keep roots healthy