carnation
Dianthus 'Spangled Star'
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 8
Flowers:
Red with pink petal margins and blotches Flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Low
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Carnations (Dianthus 'Spangled Star') look great in pots and flowerbeds. They need regular, consistent watering throughout the summer months. Water the plants at least once a week, making sure to water deeply so that the entire root system is saturated. If the soil is sandy, then water more often to keep the soil consistently moist. During hot weather, water carnations daily. In the early morning or evening is the best time to water them, as this will help to prevent evaporation and not encourage disease, especially powdery mildew. Carnations should never dry out, and if they receive too little water their leaves will start to droop.
sunlight
Carnations of the variety Dianthus 'Spangled Star' appreciate a sunny spot for at least 6 hours per day. The most beneficial time of day for sunlight is from 10am to 4pm, when the sun is at its highest in the sky and the exposure is strongest. Aim for about 1 inch of direct exposure per hour. Avoid the full heat and drought of the summer late afternoon sun which can damage the delicate and thin petals of this variety, causing the leaves to yellow and wilt. In the winter months, provide the Carnation 'Spangled Star' with the maximum sunlight possible as they can still thrive in cold, provided there’s adequate sun.
pruning
Carnations (Dianthus 'Spangled Star') should be pruned every few days during the growing season, and twice a year after blooming. In most climates, the growing season is from April to September. To prune, use clean, sharp shears to remove wilted flower heads and foliage that is yellowing or showing signs of damage. Make sure to clean your shears with rubbing alcohol before and after pruning. Cut the stems back to the main stem, to a point just above a set of healthy leaves. You can also cut a few inches off the ends of the stems to help stimulate more blooms. Keep in mind, however, that overwatering and too much fertilizer can lead to excessive foliage growth, so it may be necessary to prune more often throughout the season.
FAQ
Is carnation perennial plant?
Yes, carnations are a type of perennial plant. Most carnations grown for cut flowers are Dianthus caryophyllus, with other species and hybrids available as garden plants. They normally reach heights of about 25-60cm, although some varieties can be up to 90cm tall. Carnations tend to bloom from spring to autumn and require full sun, well-drained soil, and plenty of food and water throughout the summer.
Could Carnations survive in a cold climate?
Carnations are a hardy flower that do have the potential to survive in a cold climate. However, they prefer a mild, temperate climate with temperatures between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius, so in order to best care for them in a cold climate, you should provide a small, sheltered area that keeps the cold out and insulates the flowers adequately. It is also important to ensure the soil does not freeze and does not get too wet. If possible, try insulating the soil and keeping it in a spot that gets some sunlight throughout the day. With the proper care and a good environment, Carnations can remain healthy during cold winter months.
Should I deadhead my carnations?
Yes, you should deadhead your carnations. Deadheading carnations is important for the health of your plants. Deadheading removes spent flowers and stimulates new growth, which will help your carnations look their best. It also encourages your carnations to produce more flowers. In addition, deadheading helps to prevent self-seeding, which can lead to an overgrowth of carnations where you don't want them. To deadhead, pinch off any spent flowers right at the base. Be sure to wear gloves if you have sensitive skin.
How long do carnation bloom?
Carnations are generally quite resilient flowers and can bloom for up to two months or longer when cared for properly. When taken care of, carnations cut for bouquets and arrangements can last for up to two weeks. If placed in a vase, high-quality carnations can last for up to a month, depending on environmental factors like temperature, light and water.
Do carnations have a strong scent?
Carnations have a mild scent that is not as powerful as some other flowers, such as roses. The scent of a carnation will be strongest in warmer weather and will be more subtle and muted in colder temperatures. Some types of carnations, such as those with a high percentage of geraniol, will be more fragrant, but these are generally less common in gardens and bouquets.
Can carnation be grown from seeds?
Yes, carnations can be grown from seeds. The seeds should be planted in a warm area as soon as possible after they are harvested from the plant. The soil should be kept damp and warm throughout the germination process. Typically, a seedling will emerge from the seed after about two weeks and it will take up to a year for the plant to reach full maturity. Some gardeners recommend covering the seed with a thin layer of soil and then keeping it moist until the seedling appears. After that, plenty of sun, water, and fertilizer should be used to nurture the growth of the carnation.
Can carnations be grown indoors?
Yes, carnations can be grown indoors. They must be kept in a sunny location with plenty of light and a well-draining soil. They should also be protected from drafts and strong winds. Indoor grown carnations should be watered often and should be placed in a spot that does not get too dry or too humid. Carnations should also be fertilized every month to ensure optimal growth. Taking these steps will ensure that your carnations can thrive indoors!
Is Carnation a good plant for cutting flowers?
Yes, Carnations are an excellent option for cutting flowers. They have large, fragrant blooms that come in nearly every color, making them a great addition to any fresh bouquet. Furthermore, they are relatively cheap compared to other options and last a surprisingly long time even when cut. Carnations fill their vase with a unique appearance and make a home or occasion look instantly beautiful.
