Bringing up 'Baby' pinks

Grow divine Dianthus for colour and scent, says Ruth

- Ruth Hayes

I NEVER used to be a massive fan of Dianthus, regarding them as slightly old-fashioned and fussy.

But boy have my opinions changed! Pinks, as they are also known, are hardy, low growing perennials that produce clumps of pretty, clove-scented flowers on short stems.

The blooms are usually shades of pink and often striped white. They have frilly edges that look as though they have been snipped with pinking shears.