Carnations , scientifically known asDianthus caryophyllus , are part of the Caryophyllaceae family , commonly know as the pink or carnation family . This genusDianthusincludes a vast array of species , but the carnation is perhaps the most well - hump , with its typical fringed flowers and spicy , clove - alike scent . The name “ Dianthus ” itself derives from Greek , meaning “ flower of Zeus , ” show the industrial plant ’s ancient grasp .
The history of carnations stretch back thou of years , with origins traced to the Mediterranean region . They were democratic in Ancient Greece and Rome , where they were used in ceremonies and art . Over century , carnation have garnered symbolical meanings ; in many polish , they stand for erotic love , fascination , and distinction . The Victorians , known for their “ language of flowers , ” assigned various colors of carnations dissimilar meaning , with red symbolising deep passion , pink for maternal love , and white for pure love . By the sixteenth century , carnations were being civilize in Europe , and by the 19th one C , they became a staple in floral arrangements worldwide due to selective breeding for size of it , color , and fragrance .
clove pink are native to the Mediterranean region , specifically the areas around Greece and Italy , where they arise in jolting , well - drained grease . This native home ground shine their preference for sunny , somewhat arid term , although modern smorgasbord have been bred to adapt to various climates and stain case .
In terms of lifespan , Dianthus caryophyllus are perennial , meaning they can return year after year under the good conditions . However , they are often treat as biennials or annuals in insensate climates where the plants might not survive coarse winter without protection . With right caution , include mulching for wintertime protection , Dianthus caryophyllus can live for several geezerhood , producing their vivacious flowers each season .
When it comes to USDA Hardiness Zones , carnations are generally dauntless in geographical zone 5 through 9 . This cooking stove designate their adaptability to a variety of temperate climates where they can survive wintertime lows , though in the colder end of this spectrum , they might need some wintertime shelter or be raise as yearbook . In zones 8 and 9 , they are more potential to behave as perennials , producing blooms throughout the grow season . In zones cool than 5 , clove pink are typically treated as annuals or overwinter indoors . Their permissiveness to heat and dusty count on the specific form , with some cultivars bred for better performance in extreme conditions . For gardeners in cold area , start out carnation indoors and then transplanting them alfresco after the last frost can extend their growing time of year and protect from other frost .
How To Grow Carnations (Dianthus) In Pots & Containers
Choosing the Right Container
Select a pot that ’s at least 12 in cryptic and full to adapt the carnation ’s ascendant organisation . assure the container has honorable drainage holes to prevent waterlogging . Terra cotta or plastic pots work well , but remember that terra cotta might dry out faster , so monitor wet level closely .
Soil Mix
Use a well - draining , fertile potting admixture . A mixing of garden stain , compost , and perlite or sand can provide the Libra the Balance of nutrients and drainage gillyflower require . The soil should be slightly alkaline for optimal development , with a pH between 6.7 and 7.0 .
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If starting from seeds , sow them indoors 8 - 10 weeks before the last expected frost , covering softly with territory . For plant or cuttings , plant them at the same astuteness they were growing at antecedently , control the crown of the plant is just above soil level . distance multiple plants about 6 - 12 inch apart to give them room to grow .
Light
Carnations ask full sun to bloom their good , which mean at least 6 hour of unmediated sunlight day by day . Place your container in a location where it will receive morning sun with some afternoon nicety in very hot climates to prevent scorching .
Watering
Keep the dirt moderately moist but not soggy . Overwatering can lead to solution rot , so allow the top in of soil to dry out between waterings . Dianthus caryophyllus are somewhat drouth - tolerant once base , but regular watering promotes continuous blooming .
Temperature
carnation prefer cooler temperatures for optimal growth , ideally between 60 - 70 ° F ( 15 - 21 ° 100 ) . Protect them from extreme frigidity in winter by moving pots indoors or to a sheltered office , and from undue heating plant in summertime .
Fertilization
Feed clove pink with a balanced , pee - soluble fertilizer every 4 - 6 calendar week during the growing season . A plant food more or less high in phosphorus can encourage more flowering . Avoid over - fertilizing , which can run to lush foliage at the expense of bloom .
Deadheading
Regularly remove spend flowers to encourage more blooms . This process , known as deadheading , prevents the plant life from redact get-up-and-go into seminal fluid production and instead promote additional flowering .
Pruning
Prune your carnations to keep them succinct and encourage bushier growth . After the first flower , trend back the stems by about one - third to promote a second flush of flowers . In former fall or other natural spring , switch off back the plants more severely to stimulate Modern increment .
Pest and Disease Control
Watch out for aphid , wanderer hint , and fungal disease like rusting or fusarium wilting . utilise insecticidal max or neem oil for pests , and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues . Remove and dispose of infected plant parts promptly .
winter
In zone where wintertime are harsh , bring your pots indoors before the first frost . put them in a cool , shining area like a glasshouse or sunroom . Reduce watering but keep the soil slightly moist to prevent the roots from drying out completely .
Repotting
Every couple of years or when the plant becomes ascendant - bound , repot into a slightly larger container with new soil . This not only gives the plant more elbow room to rise but also refreshes the grease ’s nutrient visibility . outpouring is the best time for repotting , aligning with the plant ’s growth cycle .
