SproutSmart
SproutSmart™ Intelligent Garden Sowing

King Of The Blacks

Family: Caryophyllaceae Herbaceous flowering plant
Zone 6b Save Garden

Planting Schedule

Add King Of The Blacks to your garden to build a schedule and get reminders.

Velvet-dark blooms—nearly black at the center and edged with a winey, carnation glow—open with a slow, sumptuous fullness that feels almost luminous in the garden light.

King Of The Blacks forms sturdy, upright stems topped with ruffled, layered petals that hold their shape beautifully, offering a rich, velvety texture from first blush to peak display. Grow it for long-lasting cut-flower arrangements and for striking ornamental color in beds and borders where its dramatic depth becomes the season’s signature.

Light: Full SunMaturity: 120 DaysHabit: Clumping

Botanical illustration of King Of The Blacks

Planting schedules and alerts are optimized for Columbus (Zone 6b).

Crop Dates

MilestoneDate
Start IndoorsDirect Sow
Last FrostApr 25th
Transplant / Sow OutdoorsApr 25th
Harvest BeginsAug 23rd
Harvest EndsOct 16th

Crop Details

TraitValue
Days to Maturity120
Sun RequirementsFull SunFull sun
Growth HabitClumping
Support NeededNone
Planting DepthNormal
Germination Temp (°F)60
Min Soil Temp (°F)60
Min Night Temp (°F)40
Harden Off (days)Not Required

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease is most common on Dianthus caryophyllus (King of the Blacks), and how do I treat it?
A frequent problem is fungal leaf spot/botrytis that shows up as brown to gray spots or fuzzy gray growth, especially when leaves stay wet. Water at the base in the morning, space plants for airflow, and remove affected foliage promptly. If it’s spreading, spray a labeled fungicide for ornamentals (follow the label timing) and avoid watering overhead for the rest of the season.
How often should I water Dianthus caryophyllus during the main growing phase?
During active growth, keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy—aim for watering whenever the top 1 inch of soil feels dry. Typically this means about 1–2 times per week depending on heat, with deeper watering so roots grow down. Consistent moisture is especially important for flower set, but reduce frequency once plants begin to slow in late season to prevent rot.
How can I tell when King of the Blacks (Dianthus caryophyllus) is ready to harvest?
Harvest when individual blooms are fully colored and just opening (petals have loosened from the bud but are not yet collapsing). Use the 120-day timeline as a guide, but confirm by bloom stage rather than the calendar. Cut stems early in the day with a sharp knife, and remove spent flowers to keep Dianthus producing.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for King Of The Blacks in Zone 6b typically begins around 2026-04-25. Wait until soil reaches at least 60°F before transplanting King Of The Blacks.

Garden Alerts

In Zone 6b, the average last spring frost is around April 25. Watch soil temperature before transplanting King Of The Blacks.

Today's Conditions

Outdoor planting for King Of The Blacks in Zone 6b typically begins around 2026-04-25. Wait until soil reaches at least 60°F before transplanting King Of The Blacks.

Garden Alerts

In Zone 6b, the average last spring frost is around April 25. Watch soil temperature before transplanting King Of The Blacks.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 60°F and nights stay above 40°F before moving outdoors.

Expert Note

For best bloom and winter survival, keep plants on the dry side, give full sun, and avoid waterlogged soil (good drainage is critical for carnations).