Planting Requirements

• Carnations thrive in a wide range of soil conditions. Make sure the soil is well-draining, as the carnation does not tolerate overly wet. Often utilized in a rock garden setting, the carnation does not mind nutrient-poor soil conditions. The plants must receive four to five hours of sunlight to produce flowers.
  
  

Considerations

• Consider sowing carnation seeds directly into moist soil when all danger of frost has passed. Space the seeds approximately 12 inches apart. Cover the soil with 1/2 inch of soil and mist lightly until germination occurs. The plants grow rapidly and will bloom within four to six weeks of planting.
  
  

Warning

• Avoid over-watering, which will yellow and kill the foliage. Once established, the carnation requires watering only during the mid-summer months when there is no rain fall. Allow the soil to dry out before watering.