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We have been busy packing our favorite flower seeds and gearing up for another amazing year. Stay tuned for back in stock seeds and plants for 2025 plus over 75 new varieties!
Carnation 'Chabaud Giants Benigna'
Seed Packet

Carnation 'Chabaud Giants Benigna'

Dianthus caryophyllus
In 1904 they called these fragrant beauties Earliest French, which hinted at their ability to be grown as an annual in northern areas. The garnet-hued embroidered edges of these flirty ruffled flowers attract the eye, and their clove scent is unmistakable. Best in moderate summer areas in fertile, freely-drained alkaline soils.
SKU #S1656
$3.50
Currently Unavailable
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Details
Approximate Seeds Per Packet
110
Lifecycle
Annual; tender perennial
Perennial Hardiness Zone
7,
8,
9
Annual Hardiness
Half Hardy Annual
Mature Size
2' h x 1' w
Sun
Full sun
Soil
Rich, well-drained
Season
Summer
Color
Creamy white with red stitched edges
Features
Great Cut Flower
Deer Resistant
Heat or Drought Tolerant
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Bees
SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
1/16"
Sprout Time:
7-14 days
Seed To Bloom:
16-20 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Recommended. Sow indoors 8-10 weeks before planting out at the last frost date. Keep at 65-70°F until germination occurs, then at 50-55°F.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow where hardy at last frost date for some fall flowers and overwintering as perennial. In warm winter areas (zones 8-9) sow in late summer for flowers the following year.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
At last frost date.
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Chabaud carnations, with their charming old-fashioned allure, have captivated generations of gardeners with their spicy clove fragrance and gathered petals. These beloved cut flowers are at home in cottage and cutting gardens, where placing short, twiggy brush establishes a sturdy framework for their slender, sometimes weaving stems. To encourage further branching and abundant blooms, pinch back the seedlings when they reach a height of approximately 6-8 inches. Larger flowers will result if only one central bud is left per stem. Prefers moderate summer temperatures. Edible petals are useful as garnishes.
Final Spacing:
6-8"
Water Requirements:
Medium Water Use
Watering Details:
Water regularly, about 1" per week for best growth and flowering. In zones where it is winter hardy, it will tolerate some drought once fully established. Avoid overwatering and saturated soils.
Soil pH:
Neutral to alkaline pH is preferred. If soil is acidic, apply a handful of lime when planting.
Fertilizer:
Apply a slow release, low-nitrogen, higher phosphorus granular, organic fertilizer or 2" of compost in springtime.
Diseases & Pests:
Leaf spots can mar the leaves of Dianthus. Space well apart for good air circulation. Avoid saturated soils which may lead to root rots.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when two flowers are open on the spray.