Genus Dianthus alongside the Indian Pink and Annual Carnation

Along with its commercial uses, Black Walnut makes a wonderful shade tree. Before planting Black Walnut in a yard or garden, you should be aware that these trees produce an allelopathic chemical called juglone. Juglone will inhibit the growth of some species of plants and trees within a 50- to 60-foot radius, so position carefully when planting a Black Walnut tree.

The Sweet William or Dianthus Barbatus belongs to the genus Dianthus alongside the Indian Pink and Annual Carnation. According to many keen gardeners the Dianthus and its members have a place in every garden across the UK and can be used in rockeries, beds and window boxes such is the versatility of this genus. With a long and varied history including accreditation by the Ancient Greeks, the many varieties of Dianthus would take an age to discuss so instead we will look at one of the most popular and well loved varieties, Dianthus Barbatus or Sweet William. Typical of a Dianthus species the Sweet William has grass like leaves and is a reasonably hardy garden plant that prefers a well drained soil and a sunny position.

The highly popular garden plant has been cultivated numerous times over the years and there are now many hybrids and cultivars available differing in colour and pattern. One of the best ways to see Sweet William in all its glory is to plant mixed seeds together. Once the seeds germinate and the plant flowers you will be left with a colourful array of pink, white, purple and mauve. The Sweet William Monarch Mixed Seeds available from Plant Me Now for example are a fragrant ‘cottage garden’ favourite and are a great way to add some early summer colour to your garden beds and borders. Available now for sowing in April/June you can expect your garden to be in full colour between May and July next year.