Who among us hasn’t been gifted with a carnation flower corsage, boutonniere, or bouquet?
Keep in mind that carnations are mildly toxic to animals.
Pinning down its native locale is difficult, but some botanists theorize it originated somewhere in the Mediterranean.
Chabaud carnations come in a variety of colors; “Benigna” is white edged with magentaPV/ Flickr /CC BY 2.0
Traditionally, carnations symbolize captivation, distinction, and love, especially motherly love.
A carnation’s color is often vibrant and makes a beautiful choice for the cottage garden.
Easy seasonal care includesdeadheadingthem after their first bloom, which helps ensure reblooming later in the season.
“Rony” carnations are a deep scarlet redLongsheds / Flickr/ CC BY 2.0
Carnations, like all dianthus, are deer-resistant, but rabbits may enjoy nibbling on the leaves.
Light
Although they do best in full sun, carnations are fine with some partial shade.
Too much bright afternoon sun might cause the petals of brightly colored carnations to fade.
Alkaline soil tends to have slightly higher concentrations of calcium, magnesium, and sodium.
During dry spells in summer, they may need an extra drink of water.
Water at the base of the plant.
Temperature and Humidity
Carnations like a warm environment, but will wilt in extreme heat.
They do best in low humidity.
Fertilizer
Newly growing carnations can benefit from a small amount ofslow-release fertilizer.
A quick-release fertilizer can burn the plant.
Overfertilization can cause the carnation’s roots to shrivel, which may trigger conditions for root rot.
The following cultivars are a very small sample of the thousands of varieties available.
Seedlings should germinate within three days.
Grow them from cuttings or division.
How to propagate carnations from cuttings:
A majority of professional carnation farmers grow carnations from cuttings.
These cuttings should be 4 to 6 inches.
Dividing them every two to three years will revive the plants and keep them healthy, as well.
Choose pots of any material with drainage holes.
Remove from the old container carnations that are root bound or need rejuvenating.
Overwintering
Carnations are cold hardy and can easily survive tough winters.
To ensure survival, cut the plants down to a few inches from the ground before winter hits.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Carnations are vulnerable to pests, includingaphids,spider mites, andcutworms.
Insecticidal soapcan control aphids and spider mites.
Carnations are susceptible to fungal diseases, such asleaf spot, rust, andbotrytis flower rot.
Carnations prefer well-draining soil to bloom or they may flower, but they will look discolored.
Sometimes carnation buds are tight or not fully open.
These two methods are easiest for cut carnations or carnations in a container.
Brush from the center of the flower to its outer edges to help it “bloom.”
Common Problems With Carnations
Dianthus are fairly easy to grow and care for.
Rust and leaf spot could also cause browning and leaf curl.
Space the plants to improve air circulation.
Use insecticidal soap to control the issue.
Aphids could also cause the discoloration in the leaves.
Holes in Buds
It’s likely cutworms have fed on the buds and created holes.
Going forward, plants will need protection or pesticides (as a last option).
Remove diseased parts with a cutting tool that is well sterilized to avoid the spread of the problem.
Moving forward, be cautious when watering so you don’t splash buds or leaves.
Root rot can also cause wilting, leading to yellow leaves, and then imminent death.
The carnation, in general, symbolizes love and beauty.
But different colors of carnations symbolize different things.
For example, light red to someone you admire but dark red carnations to someone you love passionately.
Pink carnations indicate fondness, gratitude, and maternal love.
Purple carnations symbolize sorrow or apology.
If you want to send a message of rejection or disappointment to someone, send yellow carnations.
Carnations are one of the most popular commercial cut flowers for floral arrangements, corsages, and boutonnieres.
Considered an affordable alternative to roses, the flowers are known for their long-lasting fragrance and vase life.
