Sweet William – Mix

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Growing Sweet William from Seed

Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus) is a fragrant biennial or short-lived perennial that typically spends its first growing season developing foliage and establishing a strong root system. Flowering generally occurs the following year, although flowering time can vary depending on growing conditions and variety. Under favorable conditions, Sweet William may reseed naturally and return in the garden for several seasons.

Sweet William grows well in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil with consistent moisture during establishment. It is well suited to borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, mixed flower beds, and cut-flower plantings.

Pacific Northwest Planting

For gardeners in the Pacific Northwest, late summer to early fall is an excellent time to sow Sweet William. We recommend waiting until the heat of summer has subsided and temperatures have cooled into the 70s or lower.

Sow seed directly where the plants are to grow and cover lightly with soil. Keep the seed bed consistently moist after planting, particularly during late summer and early fall. Adequate moisture is important for germination and gives young plants time to become established before winter.

Once established, plants can overwinter and continue growing the following spring.

Spring Planting

Sweet William can also be sown in spring. Direct sow outdoors once conditions are suitable for germination, and keep the seed bed consistently moist during germination and early growth.

Spring-planted Sweet William will generally focus its first growing season on establishing the plant, with flowering commonly occurring the following year.

Planting in Other Regions

Sweet William can be grown in many regions of the United States. Planting time should be based on your local climate and growing conditions.

In cooler climates, spring planting is a reliable option once the soil can be worked. Late summer or early fall planting can also be successful when there is sufficient time for plants to establish before winter.

In regions with mild winters, late summer or fall planting can be a good choice after the hottest weather has passed.

In warmer climates, Sweet William generally performs best when grown during the cooler part of the year. Avoid planting during periods of extreme heat.

Regardless of region, provide consistent moisture during germination and establishment and choose a well-drained planting site.

Seeding Rates

Broadcast seeding rate: 12–15 pounds per acre

Seed drill rate: 6 pounds per acre