Why do my dianthus buds fall off?

I have a dianthus whatfield can-can, which I planted in early May. It had a few small buds on it when I bought it, but a few weeks later all except one fell off, just when they looked about to open. I had one lovely flower open up. Then it budded again, and a week ago most of those also fell off. What's going on?

Re: Why do my dianthus buds fall off?

Reply from Katy Elton

Hi Katie,

What a shame! Have you been watering it regularly (especially in the recent high temperatures)? And is it getting enough sun? Dianthus do like full sun. As well as watering I would maybe try feeding it with a high potassium feed, as this encourages strong healthy flowering.

Also, are there any signs of pests or diseases on the plant?

Don’t forget to add it to your ‘plants I have’ list to receive regular care updates http://www.shootgardening.co.uk/plant/dianthus-whatfield-cancan.

Regards
Katy

Re: Why do my dianthus buds fall off?

Reply from Valerie Munro

Hi Katie

I do agree with Katy that a lack of potassium is often the cause for flower bud and flowering failures. I know that it has been extremely hot recently, and we are having to water, water, water just to keep up with the heat..

However, there is a slight irony here - it could be that your dianthus has been getting more water than it can deal with. The general rule of thumb is that a plant with a silvery leaf will only need half the amount of water than an all green leafed plant needs.

Good luck!
Auntie Planty
www.auntieplanty.com

Re: Why do my dianthus buds fall off?

Reply from Katie Harwood

Thanks for the advice. I will try some potassium plant food, and maybe cut down on a bit of water. I have been watering it nearly every day!