How to Grow Carnations Outside

Carnations produce white, red and pink flowers in late spring.

Carnations are biennial or short-lived perennials valued for their attractive flowers, which are commonly used in decorative floral arrangements and bouquets. Carnation plants bloom from late spring to fall, producing numerous blossoms in shades of pink, red and white. Most varieties of carnation also produce a sweet scent that further increases their appeal. Native to Europe and Asia, carnations grow in most temperate regions of the United States and require only minimal care to thrive outdoors.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Compost
• Garden tiller
• Mulch

1. Choose a planting site for carnations that receives full sunlight throughout the day and consists of well-drained, fertile soil. Apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost over the planting site and use a garden tiller to work the material into the soil before planting.

2. Plant carnations during spring or fall. Dig a hole in the soil of equal depth and twice as wide as the carnation's previous container. Remove the carnation from its container and loosen the dirt around the roots. Insert the roots into the hole and gently cover with soil. Firm the soil and water thoroughly to collapse any air pockets. Space carnation plants 6 to 12 inches apart.

3. Spread a 1-inch layer of compost over the soil surrounding the carnations and then cover the compost with a 2-inch layer of mulch. Do not allow the compost or mulch to touch the plant, as this increases the risk for rotting or disease. Remove both layers each year during late winter and apply fresh compost and mulch.

4. Water carnations during summer and only during weeks that receive less than 1 inch of natural rainfall. Do not water during the spring, fall and winter months. Apply water directly to the soil during the early morning to minimize disease vulnerability.

5. Remove spent and faded carnation blossoms whenever possible to prolong the blooming season and force the formation of additional flowers. Pinch off the flowers where they branch from the stem to reduce damage. Cut carnations back to 1 to 2 inches above the soil line after the first hard frost of fall or winter.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the mulch over the ground throughout winter to insulate the soil and protect the plant's roots.

• The layer of compost under the mulch serves as fertilization for the plant. It requires no supplemental feeding if properly maintained.

• Harvest carnation flowers anytime the plant is flowering.

References

• National Gardening Association: Plant Care Guides: Dianthus
• Colorado State University Cooperative Extension: 2004: Year of the Dianthus
• "Nevada Gardener's Guide"; Linn Mills, Dick Post; 2005