From my perspective as a carnation seed, I am a tiny, dark, disc-like vessel of potential life, but I am dormant. My outer coat is hard, designed to protect the embryonic plant within from the harsh world until conditions are precisely right for germination. To break this dormancy, I require a period of cool, moist conditions that mimic the passing of winter. This process, called cold stratification, is non-negotiable for many of my kind. You can simulate this by placing me and my fellow seeds in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag and refrigerating us for two to three weeks. This chilly, damp treatment softens my coat and signals that it is safe to emerge, as the frost has passed and spring is arriving.
Once my dormancy is broken, I am ready for soil. I am exceedingly vulnerable at this stage. I require a well-draining, sterile seed-starting mix. Heavy, soggy soil will quickly cause me to rot, suffocating my nascent roots before they even begin. Sow me on the surface of the moistened mix and press me gently down; I need light to trigger germination, so a mere dusting of fine vermiculite is all the covering I can tolerate. Consistent moisture is my lifeline, but I detest being waterlogged. A gentle misting is the best way to provide drink without disturbing me. I thrive in warmth, with soil temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) being ideal. Under these perfect conditions, with bright, indirect light, you should see my first tiny leaves (cotyledons) emerge in 14 to 21 days.
As a seedling, my needs are simple but absolute. My first true sets of leaves are delicate and my root system is minuscule. I am susceptible to a fungal disease called "damping-off," which can swiftly kill me. Good air circulation is crucial to prevent this. Water me from the bottom to keep my leaves dry and avoid disturbing my delicate anchoring roots. Once I have developed two to three sets of true leaves, I am strong enough to be transplanted into my own small pot. Handle me only by my leaves, never my fragile stem. This new pot should also have excellent drainage, filled with a slightly richer but still well-aerated potting mix to support my rapid growth.
After transplantation, my focus turns to vegetative growth. I will develop a bushy habit with many narrow, grey-green leaves. I am a sun-worshipper, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow strong and stocky. Less light will make me leggy and weak. As I mature, I prefer cooler growing conditions, which promote stronger stems and more intense flower coloration. Once I am well-established in my final location—whether a pot or a garden bed with fantastic drainage—you can encourage my branching by pinching off the top of my main stem. This may seem counterintuitive, but it directs my energy to producing lateral shoots, which will result in more flowering stems later. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer will provide the nutrients I need to support this lush growth.
My ultimate purpose is to flower. As day length increases and temperatures remain cool, I will begin to form buds at the ends of my stems. The care you provided during my early life directly impacts my flowering success. Strong roots support healthy buds, and adequate sunlight ensures vibrant color and form. To prolong my blooming period, consistently deadhead spent flowers. This prevents me from diverting energy into seed production and instead encourages me to produce more blooms. By understanding and providing for my needs at each distinct stage of life, you allow me to fulfill my complete life cycle, from a dormant seed to a magnificent, fragrant flower.
