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Carnation

Cut Flower Care Guide

Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus) are classic, long-lasting cut flowers prized for their spicy-sweet fragrance and exceptional vase life. Standard carnations produce one large bloom per stem, while spray types produce multiple smaller blooms. They are cool-season growers that perform best in moderate temperatures.

🌱 Planting Guide

When to Plant Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost, or transplant in early spring once soil is workable. Fall planting works in zone 7.

Planting Depth 1/8 inch deep for seeds; transplant at the same depth they grew in pots

Spacing 12–18 inches between plants; 24–36 inches between rows

Soil Well-drained, slightly alkaline soil, pH 6.5–7.5. Add lime if soil is acidic.

Sunlight Full sun — 6+ hours. Tolerates light afternoon shade in hot areas.

💡 Tips

Carnations prefer cool conditions — they slow down in summer heat
Support netting is essential for straight stems
Pinch young plants to encourage branching and more stems
Disbud spray types for larger individual blooms, or leave for multiple blooms per stem
Remove side shoots on standard types for one large bloom per stem

📅 Month-by-Month Care Calendar

Jan

Order seeds or plugs. Plan indoor sowing schedule.

Feb

Start seeds indoors under lights. Maintain 65–70°F for germination.

Mar

Continue indoor growing. Harden off seedlings. Prepare outdoor beds.

Apr

Transplant outdoors after last frost. Install support netting.

May

Pinch young plants. Begin watering and feeding routine.

Jun

First harvests of early-planted carnations. Continue pinching and feeding.

Jul

Peak harvest for spring-planted crop. Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat.

Aug

Take cuttings for next year. Continue harvesting. Reduce feeding in heat.

Sep

Fall planting in zone 7. Continue harvesting as weather cools.

Oct

Prepare winter protection for zones 5–6. Take final cuttings.

Nov

Apply mulch after hard frost. Clean up spent plants.

Dec

Check winter protection. Order seeds for next season.