A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2003 Mountain Mist Dianthus

My sister gave me two lovely, healthy Mountain Mist Dianthus back in July. I planted them in my newly established flower bed.They are now brown and appear to be dead. The top soil mixed with Peat Moss and sand has been a happy home to many other perinials this summer. I water regularly, I have fertilized with Miracle grow. The bed id mulched with pinestraw. What has happened to my sick Dianthus?

Apart from a variety of insects, Dianthus is sometimes affected by some fungal diseases such as crown rot and rusts. It is possible that the cause is a fungal disease. Cut the plants back and destroy the prunings. If the roots are still healthy, you should see new growth again in a couple of weeks. This may also be caused by lack of moisture and poor soil. Prune back the dried sections, add fertilizer, and keep well watered.

Good luck
Barb barbsblooms@shaw.ca