Grow Carnations
Carnations are very popular the world over as boutonnieres, in corsages, bouquets, and in a wide range of floral arrangements. They grow into big, full blooms on strong, straight stems and the blooms last a long time. Carnations are not very difficult to grow, in fact so easy that it is a wonder that more people don't grow these great and versatile flowers. They can actually be successfully planted in flowerbeds or containers. They produce a spicy clove-like fragrance, and the most common colors are white, red, and pink. Carnations are often called "Pinks" in the garden. They are simply created from the multiple flowers on the stem, by pinching off all flowers, except the center or terminal bud.
Carnations are grown from seed. They can be directly seeded in the flower garden, or planted indoors for transplanting later. If the plants are to be grown outdoors, you need to sow them early in the spring. The soil should not be too wet. When sowing the carnation seeds, you need to cover them lightly with 1/4 inches of fine soil. You need to space the seeds or seedlings 12" apart. If you are attempting growing perennials, you can propagate them from cuttings or by division. Carnations are very easy to grow. They thrive on a full supply of sun light and warmth and a rich, well drained soil. They need to be watered during dry periods, once or twice per week and would require any general purpose fertilizer once or twice a month. Carnations grow 16-18" and make great borders or edging for the garden. They grow well and bloom in spring, lasting through the summer. The perennial varieties are hardy and withstand light frosts. Perennials should be mulched for winter protection against extreme cold temperatures. Carnations have few problems with insects and disease and can be treated early with organic or chemical insect repellents and fungicide as appropriate. Carnations remain a favorite flower choice for many different occasions. They are immediately recognizable flowers, with a unique charm and allure that continues to captivate people around the globe. In fact, in many parts of the world, the popularity of carnations surpasses that of any other flower, including the popular rose. The carnations are bestowed with the ability to convey powerful sentiments and express the deepest feelings. These features are a perfect compliment to their classic beauty and long-lasting freshness. Bouquet carnations have retained their status as a floral mainstay and have proven themselves as lasting flowers in more ways than one. Light red carnations are often used to convey admiration, while the dark red versions express deeper sentiments of love and affection and while white carnations are associated with purity and luck, the pink carnations are synonymous with gratitude. In the early 20th century, carnations became the official flower of Mother's Day. In addition, carnations have found particular significance in many other cultures worldwide. |