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Carnations and Spray Carnations Care Guide

Carnations and spray carnations are versatile, long-lasting flowers loved for their ruffled petals and extensive colour range. Standard carnations feature one flower head per stem, while spray carnations produce smaller flower heads and buds on branching stems. 

 

They are popular for weddings, events, sympathy flower arrangements, bouquets, buttonholes, bud vases and everyday arrangements. 

 

Key Information about Carnations and Spray Carnations 

Availability: All Year Round 

Vase life: Approximately 7 to 21 days 

Flower Diameter: Approximately 5 to 8cm (Standard Carnation), Approximately 2.5 to 4cm 

Stem Lengths: Approximately 60 or 70cm

Genus: Dianthus

Fun Fact: The name Dianthus comes from the Greek words dios, referring to Zeus or the gods, and anthos, meaning flower. Carnations are sometimes known as flowers of the gods. 

 

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When should I order Carnations and Spray Carnations?

We recommend delivery 2-3 days before your event. 

Carnations are naturally long-lasting, but they still need time to hydrate and recover after travelling. Spray carnations may arrive with some tighter buds, particularly imported varieties, so allowing a couple of days before arranging gives the flowers time to open and develop. 

 

Step-by-step Conditioning Guide

To get the best from your wholesale Carnations and Spray Carnations, please read the care instructions carefully: 

1. Carefully remove all the outer packaging and elastic bands, taking care not to catch or damage the flower heads and branching stems. 

2. Remove any leaves that will sit below the waterline. Remove damaged leaves, broken stems or badly marked flower heads. 

3. Cut approximately 2- 3 cm from the bottom of the stem at a sharp angle using a clean florist knife, secateurs or carbon-blade scissors. 

4. Always make the cut between the raised joints or nodes on the stem. Avoid cutting directly through a joint, as this may crush or split the stem. 

5. Place the stems immediately into fresh, clean water and flower food (optional). 

6. Avoid overcrowding the bucket 

7. Leave the flowers to condition overnight before arranging. Tighter-sprayed carnations may require more time. 

8. Store in a cool, low-lit and well-ventilated environment. Never leave cut flowers in direct sunlight, near a radiator, in a draught, or close to ripening fruit. Keep out of reach of children. 

 

Common Problems and Solutions

Flowers or buds not opening: Re-cut the stems between the nodes and place into fresh, lukewarm water with flower food. Flower food is important because it supports the development of smaller buds. 

Wilting or inward curling petals: Carnations are sensitive to ethylene gas, which is produced by ripening fruit and vegetables. Exposure can cause premature wilting, curled petals and discolouration. Move the flowers away from the fruit, smoke and/or any exhaust fumes, then re-cut and place into fresh water. Flowers with significant ethylene damage may not fully recover. 

Bent, snapped or split stems: Carnation stems can be brittle around their joints. Handle the flowers by the main stem rather than the flower head or side branches. Re-cut above the damaged area where possible and use the shortened stem in a smaller arrangement or bud vase. 

Split Calyx: The green calyx beneath a standard carnation may occasionally split as the flower opens, causing the petals to spread unevenly. A split calyx does not necessarily mean the flower is unusable.  

If you continue to experience problems with the Carnations and Spray Carnations, contact the wholesalers for further guidance and replacements. 

 

 

 

Who is this Guide for?

DIY customers 

Florists 

Wedding and Event Organisers 

Anyone purchasing wholesale Carnations and Spray Carnations 

Customers creating bouquets, buttonholes or large floral designs 

Common Questions

  1. What is the difference between carnations and spray carnations? Standard Carnations have one larger flower head on each stem. Spray carnations have branching stems with several smaller flower and buds.
  2. Why should the stems be cut between the joints or nodes? The raised joints or nodes are firmer and more brittle than the rest of the stem. Cutting through the joint can crush or split the stem, while cutting between the joints creates a cleaner surface for water uptake.
  3. Should I remove the leaves? Yes, remove all the leaves that sit below the waterline. Foliage above the water can remain unless it is damaged or yellowing.
  4. How long do Carnations or Spray Carnations last? They are generally long-lasting and last between 7 and 21 days, according to the variety, maturity, environment and level of aftercare.
  5. Can Carnations be used in floral foam? Yes. Carnations perform well in floral foam. Make sure that the foam is fully saturated before inserting the stems, and keep it topped up throughout the life of the arrangement.
  6. What colours are Carnations (and Spray carnations) available in? They are available in an extensive range of colours, including block colours of white, pink, peach, red, burgundy, yellow, orange and green. They are also available in bi-coloured, striped, edged or antique toned varietes.