Dianthus 'Mel Earnshaw' (pf)

Grow under glass at 7 to 10°C in a loam-based potting compost, in bright filtered light with good ventilation. In winter provide low humidity and full light. When in growth water moderately and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser every 10 days

Gradually remove lower buds to produce larger flowers at the crown. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering

Propagate by softwood cuttings taken from non-flowering shoots in late winter

May be susceptible to aphids, thrips, tortrix moth caterpillars and glasshouse red spider mite

May be susceptible to rust diseases, virus diseases and Fusarium wilt