Dianthus is Ranked #3 of Winter Flowers in North Texas

Dianthus, also known as Sweet William, is ranked in the top third of North Texas flowers to be grown during the winter. Surpassing other flowers such as mums, jasmine, irises, poppies, kale and begonias, Dianthus are a dainty flower as a border or potted plant. These feathery petaled flowers have dense leafy underbrush when they mature. This

The colors most picked are hot pink, red with a hint of pink, and violet. Of course there are many other colors to choose from. Dianthus appears to be an unlikely flower to survive the winters in North Texas as just about any frost would turn them over. Yet, despite its fragile appearance their root systems are very resilient. Planting Dianthus at least a month and a half before a frost may ensure its safety.

Being a popular flower not just in North Texas, Dianthus have been a long time favorite of the British people and many Northerners in the New England states. Here in North Texas you will find them not just in gardens around homes, but in those of businesses as well. Even the malls have them growing in containers and as borders to their greenery.

The life of a Dianthus is sort of wishy washy as it is mainly determined by how well you take care of them. Some like to be left alone, while others want daily care. No two are exactly alike. It's sort of like raising kids. Some may seem to do well, and then all of a sudden they are sick. You may not be able to bring them out of it. The best remedy for this is to plant them in fresh clean ( sounds funny ) soil.

The best method of determining when to water is to stick your finger into the soil. If you can cover your finger nail with soil and you have not touched moist soil then it is time to water. Sweet Williams enjoy full-sun to partial-sun. If you put them in direct sun for a full days worth you may find them drying out quicker. These are not a heat tolerant flowering plant.

Hanging baskets are always a good place for flowers as they can catch the breeze they enjoy. Outdoor cafes seem to know this, as they will display their Dianthus in hanging baskets around the perimeter of the eating area. The next time you are in North Texas during the winter, take a look around at the flowers. You will find more growing in the winter than you expected.