Double Carnation Mixed

30 Seeds

Double Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus) is a beautiful flowering plant producing densely layered, fragrant blooms. It prefers cool to mild temperatures, good sunlight, fertile soil, and excellent drainage. In the Gulf, especially Kuwait, it is best grown during the cooler season, as intense summer heat can reduce growth and flowering.

🌱 Best Sowing Time

• Best sowing period: October–January.
• Best period in Kuwait: November–December.
• A second sowing can be made in January–February if temperatures remain moderate.
• Avoid: May–September and periods of extreme heat.
• Ideal germination temperature: approximately 18–22°C.

🌿 How to Sow the Seeds

1. Use a light, fertile, well-drained seed-starting mix.
2. Sow seeds approximately 0.3–0.5 cm deep.
3. Cover lightly with fine soil or growing medium.
4. Water gently using a fine spray.
5. Keep the medium evenly moist but not waterlogged.
6. Place seed trays in a bright location with gentle morning sunlight.
7. Once seedlings develop several true leaves, transplant carefully.
8. Space plants approximately 20–30 cm apart.

⏱ Germination

• Seeds generally germinate within 7–14 days under suitable conditions.
• Keep the growing medium moderately moist during germination.
• Provide good light and airflow after emergence.
• Avoid excessive watering, which can cause damping-off and root problems.

🌱 Growing & Care

• Sunlight: Full sun to light afternoon shade.
• In the Gulf, morning sun with protection from intense afternoon heat is beneficial.
• Soil: Fertile, loose, slightly alkaline to neutral, and very well drained.
• Watering: Water regularly during establishment and flowering. Allow the surface to dry slightly between waterings.
• Avoid waterlogging and prolonged wet foliage.
• Fertilizing: Add compost before planting and use a balanced flower fertilizer during growth.
• A fertilizer with adequate potassium can support flowering.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can encourage leafy growth and reduce flowering.
• Good airflow is important for reducing fungal problems.

🌸 Flowering & Maintenance

• Double Carnations may begin flowering approximately 3–5 months after sowing, depending on variety and growing conditions.
• Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage additional blooms.
• For larger individual flowers, unwanted side buds can be removed, allowing the main bud to develop.
• Provide light support if stems become tall.
• Good sunlight and cooler temperatures help maintain stronger stems and better flower color.

🌡 Gulf Climate Tips

• Cool-season cultivation is strongly recommended in Kuwait and the hotter Gulf regions.
• November and December are particularly favorable for starting seeds.
• Protect seedlings from hot, dry winds.
• During warm spells, provide 30–50% afternoon shade.
• Water preferably in the early morning.
• Avoid overhead watering late in the evening.
• Container-grown carnations can be moved to a cooler, partially shaded area during heat waves.
• Extreme summer heat may cause flowering to decline, so plan the main flowering period for the cooler months.