Dianthus 'I Love U' – 'I Love U' Pink

Express your garden's personality with the 'I Love U' Pink. This unique variety instantly captures attention with its spectacular and evolving blooms: its deeply serrated double flowers transition from intense pink to soft pink, eventually fading to pure white. Treated as a premium annual in our climate, this miniature-sized gem releases a sweet, spicy fragrance that perfumes sunny days, making it an essential choice for containers and seasonal displays.

Characteristics

• Foliage : Forms a very low, dense cushion of narrow, metallic blue-green leaves.
• Blooming : Produces a profusion of double, fragrant flowers that change color (dark pink, pale pink, and white) throughout the season.
• Light : Requires full sun for optimal flowering.
• Habit : Features a creeping and very compact habit, acting as a decorative groundcover for the season.
• Growth : Shows moderate growth, reaching only 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches) in height.
• Soil : Prefers light, well-drained potting mix.
• Temperature : Not hardy in Quebec (Zone 7a); grown as an annual.
• Resistances : Resists heat and drought once established in its container.

Usage

• Types of Use : Ideal for window boxes, patio containers, troughs, or as a seasonal border plant.
• Decorative Advantages : Offers a shifting tri-color display and a delicate fragrance; perfect for bringing sensory interest to seating areas.

Maintenance

• Watering: Water regularly but allow the soil surface to dry between waterings.
• Fertilization : Apply a liquid flower fertilizer every two weeks to maintain the heavy bloom cycle.
• Pruning : Deadhead consistently to encourage new buds and keep the plant tidy.
• Planting : Move outdoors only after all danger of frost has passed.
• Winter Protection: Will not survive our winters. Can be overwintered indoors in a cool, very bright location.