How to grow Garden Pinks in the UK
Dianthus
Garden Pinks (Dianthus) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Old-fashioned scent that perfumes the whole garden. Needs sharp drainage — add grit if heavy soil. This guide covers when and how to sow Garden Pinks, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Easy — good for beginners
Position
full sun (6+ hrs direct)
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Garden Pinks
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Plant | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Sun or part shade depending on species
- Sowing depth
- Plant at the same depth as the pot
- Spacing
- 30–60 cm apart
- Sowing
- Plant container-grown stock spring or autumn; divide established clumps in spring
- Growing
- Water well the first season until established; mulch in spring
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut back faded foliage in late autumn or early spring; divide every 3–4 years
- Watch for
- Slugs and snails on new shoots; otherwise robust
Companion planting for Garden Pinks
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Garden Pinks this year
Add Garden Pinks to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Garden Pinks FAQs
How much sun does Garden Pinks need?
Garden Pinks prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Garden Pinks easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Old-fashioned scent that perfumes the whole garden. Needs sharp drainage — add grit if heavy soil.