AGRILABH CARNATION

Other Features And Applications Carnations should be planted in an area that gets four to six hours of sunlight per day. They prefer sunlight rather than shade, so keep this in mind when deciding on their placement. When planting carnations, be sure to use well-drained soil that is fertile and slightly alkalized

1. Timing: Carnation seeds can take some time to germinate and grow. Start the seeds indoors about 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date in your area to ensure they have a head start.

2. Indoor Sowing:

• Use seed-starting trays or pots with drainage holes. Fill them with a well-draining seed-starting mix.
• Sow the carnation seeds on the surface of the soil and lightly press them into the soil. Do not cover the seeds with soil, as they require light to germinate.
• Mist the soil surface with water to keep it moist but not waterlogged.

3. Germination:

• Carnation seeds typically germinate within 10-20 days. Maintain a consistent temperature of around 60-70°F (15-21°C) for successful germination.

4. Transplanting:

• Once the carnation seedlings have grown a few true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger individual pots or cell packs.
• Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over the course of a week before planting them in the garden.

5. Outdoor Planting:

• Choose a well-draining location with full sun to light shade for planting carnations.
• Space the transplanted seedlings about 12-18 inches apart, depending on the mature size of the carnation variety.

6. Care:

• Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Apply a balanced, all-purpose liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
• Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

7. Deadheading and Maintenance:

• Remove faded flowers (deadhead) regularly to encourage prolonged blooming and prevent seed production.
• Prune the plants as needed to maintain their shape and encourage bushy growth.

8. Overwintering:

• In colder climates, carnations might not survive harsh winters. Consider providing a layer of mulch to protect the roots.

9. Pests and Diseases:

• Watch out for common pests like aphids, thrips, and spider mites. Check the plants regularly and address any infestations promptly.
• Ensure good air circulation to prevent issues with fungal diseases.