Carnation: How to Grow the Fragrant, Brightly Coloured Flower
Flowers

Carnation: How to Grow the Fragrant, Brightly Coloured Flower

Dianthus caryophyllus

Growing carnation: perennial with fragrant, brightly coloured flowers. Full sun, well-drained chalky soil, perfect in borders, pots and as cut flowers.

Characteristics

Scientific nameDianthus caryophyllus
Height30-60 cm
Sunlightpieno sole
Watermedia
Soildrenante calcareo
Toxicitylievemente tossica
Growthmedia
Temperature-10 a 30 °C
FloweringMay, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
IrrigationWater at the base every 4-5 days, keeping the soil barely moist and strictly avoiding waterlogging.

The carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) is a perennial with fragrant, fringed flowers in every shade from white to deep red. Grow it in full sun on chalky, well-drained soil — perfect in borders, pots and as a cut flower. It blooms for a long season from May to September.

Flowering season

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Practical tips

Watering

Water needs: media — always check soil moisture before watering.

Position

Prefers pieno sole: provide the right light and rotate the plant for even growth.

Substrate

Recommended soil: drenante calcareo. Refresh the substrate every 1-2 years.

Leaves

Dust the leaves with a damp cloth to support photosynthesis.

Feeding

Feed during the growing season (spring-summer) and stop in winter.

FAQ

How do I extend carnation flowering?
Deadhead spent flowers regularly and feed every 3-4 weeks during active growth. Pinching young stems encourages a bushier plant with more buds and a longer display.
Does the carnation dislike moisture?
Yes, it suffers from waterlogging, which causes crown and root rot. It prefers very free-draining chalky soil and watering at the base, keeping the foliage dry.

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