Carnation flowers come from the Ranunculaceae family that is native to the regions around the Mediterranean. It is now widely cultivated worldwide for ornamental use.
Carnations come in a variety of colors, typically pastel shades that complement each other nicely when used in bouquets together. Carnations come in shades of pink, white, yellow, and green with some variegated varieties as well.
There are many reasons to grow carnations. For example, they are easy to grow and easy to maintain. They can provide lovely colors, making them great for centerpiece arrangements.
The most important thing to know about carnations is that they should be watered regularly, but not more than once a day. Carnations also need to be fertilized every week with a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.
There are three ways to grow carnations from seed: in a pot, in the ground, or in a container.
How to Grow Carnations From Seed
Potting up carnation seeds is easy. If you have an egg carton with six cups, this can be turned into a little greenhouse for your seeds to grow in.
Make holes at the bottom of each cup and put your seeds inside 1/2-inch deep of soil or potting mix. When the plants are big enough (about 8 inches), move them into larger pots.
The best time to plant carnation seeds outside is in springtime
Carnation seeds take between two to three weeks to germinate. This is assuming that the seed is fresh and has been given the proper environment for germination. For example, a potting soil mixed with perlite, peat moss, or vermiculite in it is perfect for the process of germination.
How to Grow Carnations From Cuttings
Growing carnations from cuttings are very easy and they are an excellent choice for windowsill gardeners.
Cut just below the buds on a branch of a healthy plant and let it dry for about 3-4 days before planting it in potting soil or dirt. The end of summer is the best time to take cuttings because the new growth will have plenty of time to root before winter arrives.
How Tall do Carnations Grow
The height of the carnation depends on the type of soil it is planted in, the amount of water it receives, and the amount of sunlight it gets.
The carnations that we grow for our gardens usually have a more compact shape and grow to about 12-18 inches in height.
How Long do Carnations Bloom
Carnations bloom for an average of 3 weeks, but they can live up to 3 months if they are properly cared for.
Carnations growing conditions
To grow carnations, it’s important to use good potting soil like the Miracle-Gro® Potting Mix for Flowers & Herbs. Fertilize your plants every week with Miracle-Gro® Shake ‘N Feed® Tomato, Fruit & Vegetable Plant Food. Carnation should also get enough sunlight or place it under a grow light so that it will produce more flowers and is able to bloom year-round.
Carnations need to be grown in a warm environment with good drainage. They should not be planted too close to other plants as they grow tall and should have space in between rows.
