Dianthus: Daring in the Garden

Marco Laan

In the world of bedding and pot plants, Supra is a recently introduced dianthus variety bred by Hem Genetics, a flower seed company based in The Netherlands. The Supra series was created to be a beautiful, hardy variety suited for growing in large or small pots, making it useful for a variety of different plant programs.

Dianthus Supra Purple—shown in the garden—from Hem Genetics was an AAS Winner in 2006. The first dianthus to win an AAS award was Laciniatus Splendens from Bodger in 1935. Unfortunately, a photo of Laciniatus Splendens could not be located.

Its compactness makes Supra suited for high-density plant production and due to its firm plant structure, Supra has a good transport holding ability. Supra features strong branching, shows real growth vigor, a strong habit and lots of flower power. Its flowering richness continues throughout the season until the first frost.

Supra is available in five bold colors and a formula mixture. Supra Purple earned an All America Selections Award in 2006.

Uses: Patio containers, bedding and landscape.

Growing on
Pot size: 4 to 6-in. pots or gallon containers

Media: A well-drained, porous media is best to prevent overwatering; pH from 5.5 to 6.0.
Supra is very sensitive to high salt levels. This coupled with low temperatures can give root problems. It’s recommended to treat the plants at a young stage to be preventive against possible root diseases.

Plant density: Pot-to-pot initially, 100 plants in 4-in. pots per 10 sq. ft. When plants touch each other, reduce the number of pots to 45 to 50 plants per 10 sq. ft. Average day temperature of 58 to 60F (14 to 15C).

Fertilizing and watering
Use a fertilizer during cultivation with a soluble compound that contains magnesium for a smooth root growth. Take a soil sample regularly to monitor the nutritional status. Limit the maximum concentration to 1.8 EC. Supra requires adequate watering.

After watering, ensure the vegetation dries as soon as possible. Morning watering is most preferred.

Growth regulation
Depending on the growing conditions, it’s necessary to use PGRs several times. Especially in cases with a large difference between day and night temperatures. Most commonly used and effective PGR is Bonzi/CCC.

It’s recommended to start with 50 ml/L Bonzi—50 ml CCC/L. Depending on results, increase the dosage until maximum 150 ml/L Bonzi—80ml/L CCC. GT

Marco Laan is a Product Specialist for Hem Genetics in The Netherlands.