Ideal Select Mix Dianthus Seeds

Growing Compact China Pinks from Seed in Jordan

1. About the seeds and plants

Compact China pinks (Dianthus chinensis) are winter-flowering annuals with attractive, colourful, fragrant flowers. They are widely used in gardens, flower beds and landscaped areas and flower over a long period with good care.

Main benefits

• Cold-hardy and ideal for growing in Jordanian winters.
• Easy to grow from seed and quick to flower.
• Colourful flowers enhance gardens and farms.
• Tolerates cold but prefers mild, sunny weather.

2. Detailed growing guide

A. Soil preparation — 10 days before planting

• Use well-drained light loamy or sandy soil; China pinks do not tolerate waterlogged ground.
• A soil pH of 6.0–7.0 supports optimum growth.
• Mix in 3–5 kg of organic fertiliser per square metre to improve fertility.
• Work the soil thoroughly to a depth of 20–30 cm for aeration.

B. Equipment

• A garden spade for soil preparation.
• High-quality China pink seeds.
• Drip irrigation or a hand-held water sprayer.
• Garden shears for removing faded flowers.

C. Sowing — September–December (9–12)

• Sow directly into the soil at a depth of 0.5 cm and cover with a thin soil layer.
• Leave 10–15 cm between seeds for sufficient growing space.
• Leave 30 cm between rows for good ventilation and easy care.
• Water immediately after sowing to maintain moisture.

D. Germination — 10–14 days after sowing

• Seeds germinate at 15–20°C.
• Keep the soil moist without flooding it.
• After seedlings emerge, gradually reduce watering to encourage deeper roots.

E. Plant care — months 1–5

• Watering: water moderately every 3–5 days and avoid overwatering.
• Feeding: use balanced NPK 20-20-20 to support growth, as detailed below.
• Pruning: regularly remove faded flowers to encourage continued flowering.
• Weeding: remove weeds by hand or with light garden tools.

F. Flowering — months 3–6

• Plants start flowering 8–10 weeks after sowing.
• Cut mature flowers with sharp garden shears.

3. Fertiliser programme — NPK 20-20-20

Base dressing — 10 days before planting

Add 3–5 kg of organic fertiliser per square metre to improve the soil.

Feeding during growth

• Month 1: apply 10 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre after seedlings emerge.
• Month 2: apply 15 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre to promote vegetative growth.
• Month 3: apply 20 g of NPK 20-20-20 per square metre to support flowering.
• Months 4 and 5: apply 10 g of NPK 20-20-20 every 2 weeks to maintain flowering.

4. Common pests and problems

• Aphids: cause yellowing leaves and distorted flowers. Spray horticultural soap or Actara.
• Powdery mildew: appears as white patches on leaves. Use Score or Topas.
• Red spider mites: damage leaves. Spray neem oil or abamectin.
• Root rot: caused by excess moisture. Improve drainage and reduce watering.

5. Tips for successful growing in Jordan

• Best planting period: September–December (9–12) for abundant flowering.
• Provide full sun for 6–8 hours daily.
• Avoid overwatering, as very wet soil causes root rot.
• Use raised or well-drained beds.
• Regularly remove faded flowers to prolong blooming.

Compact China pinks are cold-tolerant, fast-growing winter ornamentals, ideal for gardens and farms. Balanced watering, suitable NPK 20-20-20 feeding and pest management help produce abundant, attractive, high-quality flowers.