Seed-grown carnations couldn't be easier to grow, but they take a long time to mature and flower, so seed should be started in late winter or very early spring and then transplanted as soon as the danger of frost has passed.

For perennial carnations, cut the stems to an inch (a couple centimeters) in fall and if possible cover with dead leaf mulch. For annual carnations, pull them out in fall because they don't grow back year after year.

Home gardeners typically buy carnation plants as perennials. Carnations are hardy in Zones 5 or 6 to 9, depending on the variety. These are short-lived perennials, typically blooming strongly for only three to four years. Plan to divide carnations whenever growth in the middle of a clump starts to die.

To add carnations to your garden, choose a spot with full sun—at least six hours of direct light per day—and well-drained soil, says Link. "In general, you will want to propagate perennial carnations from cuttings and annual carnations from seeds," he explains.. . . . .364011233935!]0000000000000009783314145065!]