Carnation Flower Information

Carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus) look so dainty yet are quite resilient and bloom all spring and summer long. Even when cut and placed in a vase of water, the blooms can last for a week or more. They fill the room with a light, clove-like fragrance and make excellent border flowers outside in your garden. Easy to grow and care for, carnations are sometimes chosen over the more expensive rose when given as a token of friendship or love.

History of Carnations

The historical roots of the carnation is convoluted at best. Carnations appear in tales of ancient Greek and Roman mythology. They are linked to Christianity and can be seen in various paintings of the Virgin Mary. The French aristocrats would wear one in their buttonhole while being led to the guillotine. The English snubbed the flower. It became the symbolic flower to honor Mother's Day. Today's carnation is given to express love and friendship.

Colors and Their Meanings

Be careful when giving carnations, especially if the recipient knows what the color means. For instance pink carnations mean "I'll never forget you." However, while yellow carnations may seem sunny and happy, they really mean rejection or disappointment in someone. Red carnations mean deep love. White means innocence and purity. Purple means whimsical. Solid colors mean "yes" and striped colors mean "I can't be with you."

Uses of Carnations

Carnations, when given in flower arrangements, can be used as the main flower or as an accent flower. Usually accompanied with baby's breath, they are given for all sorts of occasions such as birthdays, graduations, get-well wishes, boutonnieres, congratulation events (new job, promotion, housewarming), Mother's Day, funerals and, of course, love. Carnation oil is used in aromatherapy and scented candles. The petals can be dried and used in potpourri.

Growing Carnations Indoors

Growing carnations from seeds is easy and moving them outdoors is simple. Start with a large pot with drainage holes at the bottom. Use a good quality potting soil. Plants the seeds at a depth of 1/4 inch and cover lightly. Mist the soil until it is moist without washing away the seeds. Place in a window that receives indirect sunlight. Be patient as the seeds take two to three weeks to germinate.

Growing Carnations Outdoors

Carnations come in two varieties: perennials and annuals. Perennials come back every year, while annuals only last one season. Carnation seeds can be planted directly outside after the last frost of the season. Or they can be started indoors and moved outside once the threat of frost has passed. They are great in rock gardens or filling in slope areas. They can be divided and set about 12 inches apart, and they will fill in over the seasons. Snip off the blooms once they wilt to encourage more blossoms.

References

• Meanings of Flowers
• Florapedia
• Growing Carnations