Border carnation 'Eileen Neal' Dianthus 'Eileen Neal' (b)

Water

Carnation 'Eileen Neal' requires regular watering to maintain moist, but not waterlogged, soil conditions. It is best to water the plant deeply once or twice a week, providing about one to one and a half gallons per week, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage. The method should be watering at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During hot, dry periods, increase the frequency to ensure the soil does not dry out completely. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is not actively growing.

Light

Carnations in general thrive in full sun conditions, and the 'Eileen Neal' variety is no exception. The ideal spot for this dianthus should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade is tolerated but may reduce the plant’s vigor and blooming capacity. Avoid too much shade, as it can lead to poor growth and increased susceptibility to disease.

Temperature

The Carnation 'Eileen Neal' can survive in a range of temperatures but performs best in cooler conditions. It prefers a temperature range of 60-70°F during the day, dropping 10-15 degrees at night. The plant is hardy and can survive temperatures as low as freezıng, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 20°F may damage or kill the plant. Ideal growing conditions are cool to moderate temperatures with good air circulation.

Pruning

Pruning Carnation 'Eileen Neal' is important for promoting vigorous growth and prolific flowering. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. In the spring, trim back the plant to about one-third of its size to remove old growth and shape the bush. It's best to prune carnations after their first significant bloom, usually in the late spring or early summer, to ensure a second flush of flowers.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Carnations, such as 'Eileen Neal', thrive in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0–7.5. A mix of two-thirds garden soil and one-third coarse sand or perlite is ideal. Add compost for fertility.

Repotting

Carnations typically require repotting every two to three years or when they outgrow their current container. It's best done in spring before new growth starts.

Humidity & Misting

Carnations like 'Eileen Neal' prefer moderate humidity levels, avoiding excessively dry or moist air. Aim for humidity levels between 40-60%.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place carnations in bright, indirect light; avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Choose a sunny spot, protect from strong winds, ensure good drainage.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Dianthus 'Eileen Neal', more commonly known as Pinks, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown, generally in late spring or early summer, after the last frost. The seeds germinate and develop into seedlings, which will then establish a root system and begin to produce their first true leaves. As the plant matures, it enters a vegetative phase where it grows stems and foliage, forming a compact, mound-shaped clump. Flowering occurs from late spring through summer when the Pinks produce their fragrant, showy flowers, attracting pollinators to the garden. After blooming, if the flowers are left to pollinate and fade, they can produce seeds which can be collected or allowed to self-sow. During the winter or in colder climates, Pinks may die back, entering a period of dormancy, but with proper care, they can survive and re-emerge the following spring to continue their life cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The Dianthus 'Eileen Neal', commonly known as 'Pink', is typically propagated through the method of cuttings, which is often considered the most popular method for this plant. The best time to take cuttings for propagation is late spring through early summer when the plant has ample growth and the temperatures are warm enough to encourage root development. To propagate by cuttings, one should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a piece about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) long. The lower leaves are then removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to facilitate root growth. This cutting is then planted in a well-draining soil mix, ensuring that at least two nodes are buried where leaves were removed. The soil should be kept consistently moist, and the cutting should be placed in a location with bright, indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, and once established, the new plant can be transplanted to a permanent location.