The carnation is not only very easy to care for but also hardy. However, you should pay attention to a few things when overwintering your carnations so that you can enjoy the plants and their decorative flowers for a long time.
The carnation is tougher than it looks
The carnation usually withstands temperatures of up to -15 °C quite well, but it does not particularly like icy winds. In planters, however, the root balls are not adequately protected from frost. Therefore place your balcony boxes (€109.00) with carnations in a wind-protected place.
A pad made of Styrofoam or an old blanket that you wrap around the container helps against freezing roots. You can also overwinter your carnations in a greenhouse. It doesn't even need to be heated, but temperatures inside shouldn't drop much below freezing.
What care does the carnation need in winter?
The carnation reacts very sensitively to excessive moisture, whether it is waterlogging or a lot of rain. A cold, wet winter can be fatal for her. With a layer of brushwood you not only protect your plants from extreme frost but also from excessive rain.
But even in winter there are occasional dry periods. Then you should water your carnations a little on frost-free and especially sunny days. Otherwise there is a real risk that your carnations, as the carnations are also called, will dry up. However, the plants do not need fertilizer in the winter months.
The most important winter tips for the carnation:
- Protection from cold wind and wet weather
- cover with brushwood so that the plant can still get enough air
- Protect carnations in planters from frost (old blanket, polystyrene sheet (€35.50) or similar)
- Place window boxes in a sheltered place or in the greenhouse
- water a little on frost-free days
tips
The carnation needs protection from wet weather rather than frost. Nevertheless, it should be watered a little on frost-free sunny days so that it does not dry out.