CARNATION - Dianthus caryophyllus
'Chabaud Mixed'
Like most garden flowers, this fragrant favourite had humble beginnings. It was introduced to England in a wild form about the 16th century, but it was not until the about 1900 that the Perpetual flower types were developed.
The Chabaud variety is commonly called the bedding carnation. It is the most widely known and is easily recognized by its deeply serrated an fringed petals, and a strong clove like scent.
When starting carnations from seed, it is best to raise the seedlings in beds, boxes or punnets using seed raising mix. Germination may be slow and rather erratic. Seeds can be sown at almost any time of the year but spring and autumn are regarded as the best periods.
Carnations prefer an open position, meaning they like full sun light and resent being crowded by other plants. Wind protection is advisable as well.
Seedlings can be raised in boxes or punnets for transplanting, or seed can be sown direct in the garden in clumps 7-10 cm apart and thinned if required. Cover seeds lightly with vermiculite or seed raising mix and keep damp until seedling emerge. Note, please only cover the seeds very lightly, as the smaller the seeds, the thinner the covering. Give regular liquid feeds of soluble fertilizer as plants grow. This will promote flowering over a longer period. Cut back all spent flowers to prolong life of plant.
Packet 0.50 grams (approx. 250 seeds) |
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