How to Grow Dwarf Carnations

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Dwarf carnations are lovely small flowers that usually grow no more than 12 inches in height. These carnations work well in borders and edges, and are commonly called pinks or border carnations. The border variety dwarf carnation is very hardy; it can commonly be found in all the zones from Maine to Florida. The conditions can determine whether the dwarf carnation will perform as an annual or perennial, as well as how well and often it will bloom and flower. There are other dwarf carnation varieties that are not as hardy; however, they add color as an annual and also work well as a decorative potted plant.

Things You'll Need

• Dwarf Carnation seeds or plants
• Fertilizer
• Pruning shears or sharp scissors
• Garden labels (optional)
• Container (optional)

Instructions

Starting with Seeds

1. Sow carnation seeds directly on soil, 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep. Plants must be 12 inches apart.

2. Seeds can also be started indoors about six to eight weeks before the earliest planting time (the last expected spring frost).

3. Water seeds and seedlings, keeping them moist, but not soggy. Keep the seeds and seedlings in full sun.

4. Space seedlings 12 inches apart in the garden. Pull out or move seedlings that are too close. Carnations must have good air circulation to prevent leaf spots.

Growing the Plants

1. Add 10-10-10 fertilizer to the soil or take a sample of your soil to a local garden center for ph determination, and apply the recommended lime treatment if any.

2. Water the dwarf carnations regularly, allowing the soil to dry out in between. Carnations grow best in soil with good drainage.

3. Cut off brown or spotted leaves with scissors. Take care not to nick the dwarf carnation stems, which could introduce disease or kill the stem.

4. Mulch with rocks, leaving space between the rocks and the dwarf carnation stems. Using traditional wood mulch is not recommended because it holds moisture and reduces air circulation--this can vary depending on your climate and humidity too.

Caring for Mature Dwarf Carnations

1. Cut blooms for flower arrangements or deadhead blooms once the flower is spent to promote more blooms.

2. Divide mature or older plants in the spring, every two to three years. It is best to divide before the center begins to die out. Remove carnation plant from ground and split into two or three separate plants.

3. Fertilize with liquid fertilizer, 10-10-10, every six to eight weeks. Mark your calendar to remember when to fertilize.

4. Have the soil ph checked two to four times per year to maintain the right ph. Apply the lime or other recommendations to achieve the right balance.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that carnations have enough space and air circulation, which will prevent spotted leaves and many pest problems.

• Don't over-water dwarf carnations; it will brown out the carnation or kill it. Don't overcrowd seeds, seedlings, or mature dwarf carnation plants. Don't neglect to divide mature plants or they can die in the middle of the plant, which is very unsightly.

References

• NC State University Cooperative Extension - Dianthus Plant of the Month
• Growing Dianthus in Your Garden
• Dividing Mature Carnations

Resources

• Grow Carnations From Seed
• Collecting Your Own Carnation Seeds