Dianthus caryophyllus ‘Chaubaud Benigna’ seeds – (Border carnation)

Description

A very beautiful and old heirloom carnation from France, which has the sweet and spicy fragrance of clove, and makes a long lasting and beautiful cut flower . It has frilly, white to creamy white petals with a rose coloured edging. The 5cm double blooms can also have a small percentage of singles. They are  borne above grass-like, gray or blue-green foliage. ‘Chaubaud Benigna’ blooms in late January and February,  covering the small plant with scented blooms in profusion. It  is best grown as an annual for cut-flower production.

Sowing advice

Sow in spring, early summer, late summer and autumn.
Sow onto the surface of moist seed raising mix in pots or trays. Cover very lightly with seed mix, as light aids germination. Keep moist but not wet and at approx 15-20 deg C. Germination takes 2-3 weeks.  When the plant is about 20cm tall, pinch out the centre to encourage bushier more productive plants. Because their stems are tall ( great for cutting ) , try growing them through netting to support them.