Hello, dedicated caretaker. From our roots to our petals, we carnations rely on you for that most essential element: water. Getting it right is the difference between a vibrant, fragrant display and a struggling, wilted existence. Here is our guide to quenching our thirst perfectly, whether we live on your windowsill or in your garden.
Fundamentally, we crave consistency and excellent drainage. Our roots are notoriously susceptible to rot if left sitting in soggy soil. We prefer a "soak and dry" method. Please water us deeply until water runs freely from the drainage holes, ensuring the entire root ball is moistened. Then, allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out completely before watering again. Stick your finger into the soil; if it feels dry at that depth, it's time for a drink.
Life inside a container presents unique challenges. Our roots are confined and cannot seek out moisture elsewhere. The key factors here are light exposure and pot type. We dry out faster in terracotta pots than in plastic or glazed ceramic. In a sunny, warm room, we will need water more frequently, perhaps every 4-5 days. In a cooler, shadier spot, it might be every 7-10 days. Always, always empty the saucer beneath our pot after 15 minutes. We appreciate the drink, but we do not want to stand in it.
Outdoors, we are at the mercy of the elements, so your vigilance is crucial. Newly planted carnations need frequent, shallow watering to help our roots establish. Once settled, we are quite drought-tolerant, but for optimal blooming, consistent moisture is best. Water us at the base, early in the morning, so our foliage has time to dry before nightfall, preventing fungal diseases. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water us 2-3 times a week. During rainy periods, you might not need to water us at all.
Our needs change with the seasons. In spring and summer, during our active growth and spectacular blooming period, our thirst is greatest. This is when consistent watering is most critical. As autumn arrives and our growth slows, please reduce the frequency. In winter, we are mostly dormant, especially outdoors. Indoor potted carnations will need very little water during this time—just enough to prevent our soil from becoming dust-dry. Overwatering in winter is a common and often fatal mistake.
We communicate our distress clearly. If we are underwatered, our leaves will become limp, wilted, and may turn crispy and brown at the tips. Our flowers will droop and fade quickly. If we are overwatered, the signs are more sinister. Our leaves will turn yellow, starting with the lower ones, and feel soft and mushy. The base of our stems may become blackened and soft. This is root rot, and it requires immediate action—ceasing all water and potentially repotting us into fresh, dry soil.
