Carnation is also referred to as Clove Pink.

It is estimated to be native to the Mediterranean region.

It is a herbaceous perennial plant growing up to 80cm tall.

Carnation is one of the most important cut flowers of the world.

It is commercially grown in many countries like Columbia, Kenya, Canary Island, Italy, Spain, Holland, U.S.A.

In India carnation growing areas are Nasik, Pune, Bengaluru, Ludhiana, Solan and Shimla.

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Division: Magnoliophyta
• Class: Magnoliopsida
• Order: Rosales
• Family: Rosaceae
• Genus: Dianthus
• Species: caryophyllus

• Flowers are the most economically important part of Carnation.

Carnation does not like extreme of temperature and has been classified as a weather cool crop.

The ideal range of temperature for Carnation is considered to be 10°C - 20°C.

Sun light for 12 hours and humidity in the range of 50-60% is considered very favorable for growth of plants as well as flower development.

Root system of Carnation is very shallow and fibrous and hence it prefers porous loose and friable soil.

It should be rich in organic matter, high in fertility and slightly acidic in nature- pH of 6-7

Sandy loam soils, high in fertility are mostly preferred for its successful growing.

• The major challenges involve Biotic and Abiotic causes.
• Biotic Causes:
  • Major Pests: Aphids, Thrips, Red Spider Mites, Bud Borer and Tortrix Moth.
  • Major Diseases: Fusarium wilt, Alternaria Leaf Spot, Bacterial Wilt, Leaf Spot and Foot Rot.
• Abiotic Causes:
  • Calyx splitting
  • Curly tip
  • Chlorosis
  • Scorching