Dianthus Arctic Fire – BP

Description

Dianthus ‘Arctic Fire’ is an attractive, low-growing evergreen perennial that forms a dense mat of narrow dark-green leaves. Each bloom features frilly white petals with a vivid ruby-red eye—radiant, delicate, and fragrant. This variety blooms profusely from late spring through summer, and often reblooms into fall. It’s excellent as groundcover, along borders, in rock gardens, or containers. The plant is drought- and deer-resistant and beloved by pollinators.

When to Plant in the UAE

• Best Seasons: Plant during early November outdoors. 
  
  

Tips for Planting & Care

• Location & Soil: Full sun is ideal (at least 6 hours/day). Partial afternoon shade helps in hotter zones. Soil should be well-drained, neutral to slightly alkaline, favoring loam or sand.
  
  

• Planting Depth & Spacing: Space about 15–25 cm apart, forming a mat approximately 15–20 cm tall and 30–45 cm wide. Plant at the same depth as nursery containers.
  
  

• Watering: Water moderately—keep soil evenly moist but avoid soggy conditions to prevent crown rot. If grown in hot climates, allow some afternoon shade.
  
  

• Fertilizing: Generally low-maintenance. Mix compost into the soil at planting. Optional light feeding with balanced fertilizer in early spring or between bloom cycles can support repeat flowering.
  
  

• Maintenance: Deadheading spent blooms encourages rebloom. After flowering, shear plants lightly to maintain shape and encourage dense growth.
  
  

• Pests & Resistance: Deer-resistant and drought-tolerant once established. Pollinator-friendly and requires little care.

• Bloom Season: Blooms from late spring to late summer, with potential for fall rebloom if regularly deadheaded.