Carnation
dianthus caryophyllus
Also known as: ["Clove Pink","Pinks"]
Overview
A popular flowering plant known for its ruffled petals and spicy fragrance.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Dianthus |
| Botanical Name: | Dianthus caryophyllus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with added organic matter; cactus mix or sandy loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Deadhead regularly during flowering; light shaping pruning in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); partial shade in hot climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide afternoon shade in hot regions; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, slightly alkaline soil with added organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) at night promote better flowering.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent night/day cycles.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; avoid foliage contact.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape and vigor.
Tools
Sharp pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead/damaged growth; deadhead spent flowers; shape as needed
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; overcrowded roots reduce flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom but avoid waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; adjust pH with lime or sulfur if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or bud abortion in extreme heat; stunted growth or fungal issues in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, weakens stems, and can lead to root rot if soil stays cold and wet.
Solution: Move plants indoors or to a protected area; use frost cloth in mild cold spells; ensure well-draining soil.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCarnations are not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain compounds that are harmful to felines, and ingestion in small amounts is unlikely to cause significant health issues.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicCarnations are not considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion in small amounts is unlikely to cause adverse effects, though excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicDianthus caryophyllus, commonly known as carnation, is not considered toxic to humans. It is widely used in floral arrangements and does not pose significant health risks upon casual contact or ingestion in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water carnations?
A: Water carnations when the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7-10 days, depending on climate and conditions.
Q: Do carnations need full sun?
A: Yes, carnations thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
Q: Can carnations be grown indoors?
A: Yes, carnations can be grown indoors if they receive sufficient sunlight, but they generally perform better outdoors.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caryophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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