Carnation

About carnations. Carnations are herbaceous perennials that can be grown as annuals. Many old and modern carnations were bred from this species, and its single, clove-scented flowers come in shades of pink and purple above grey-green foliage. The plants bloom in midsummer and attract bees, butterflies and moths.

Size. Mature plants are about 1 to 4 feet (30 to 122 cm) tall and 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) wide. Another profile gives 50 to 100 cm tall and 10 to 50 cm wide. Plants take 2 to 5 years to reach maturity.

Climate. Carnations prefer cooler summer climates and do not tolerate high heat well.

Sowing indoors. Start seed 6 to 8 weeks before the last spring frost. Lightly press the seed into the growing mix. Seeds sprout in 7 to 14 days when kept at 65 to 72 °F (18 to 22 °C). If you use pelleted seed, keep the soil consistently moist while it germinates.

Transplanting. Move seedlings into cell packs or 3 to 4 inch (8 to 10 cm) containers 20 to 25 days after sowing. Harden them off and set them out 6 to 8 weeks after sowing. Keep seedlings cool, around 50 to 55 °F (10 to 13 °C), to keep plants low and branching at the base, and avoid temperatures above 65 °F (18 °C), especially at night.

Direct sowing. You can also sow outdoors in early spring, when a light frost is still possible.

Light and cuttings. Plant in full sun, though partial shade is also tolerated. Plants can also be propagated from softwood cuttings of non-flowering shoots taken in summer.

Light and soil. Grow carnations in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. They prefer moist, well-drained, gritty soil rich in organic matter that is neutral to slightly alkaline. The listed soil pH range is 6.0 to 8.0.

Deadheading and pruning. Deadhead regularly to prolong flowering. Pinching out the center of the plant encourages bushy growth. Lightly trim after flowering or in spring.

Containers. Carnations can be grown in containers on a patio, and the species is listed for patio and container planting.

Rust and crown rot can be problems. The plants may be susceptible to slugs, aphids, powdery mildews, a rust, a virus and Fusarium wilt. They are host plants for the larvae of several moths, including the cabbage moth and the large yellow underwing. Deer and rabbits are listed as resistant.

Pets. Carnations are listed as toxic to dogs, cats and horses, with an unknown irritant as the toxic principle. Signs may include mild stomach upset and mild skin irritation. If a pet may have eaten any part of the plant, call the poison control line at (888) 426-4435 or your vet as soon as possible.

People. One profile rates the poison severity for people as low. Another describes the plant as a skin allergen, so wear gloves and other protective gear when handling it.