Carnation Flowers

Botanical Name: Dianthus caryophyllus
Meaning: Divine Flower
Common Name: Purple Bouquet
Cultivation: Partial shade to full sun in well drained soil
Colors: Rose, Yellow, White, Red, Pink, Burgundy, Salmon
Bloom Time: Early Summer to Early Winter
Uses: For ornamental and decorative purposes
Regions: Unja regions of Gujarat, South Indian Regions, Indian Coastal Regions, Washington, North Carolina

Cultivation of Carnation
Carnation grows well in a sunny position in most good soils but disliking acid soils. This is a plant that can tolerate salt laden air and strong winds of the coast. This species is not hardy in colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperature down to about -10 degree C.

Drying of Carnation
Carnation Flowers can be dried using air drying method but this method gives varied result. The best method to dry carnation is using silica gel. The use of silica gel retains more of natural color. Pick the flowers at its peak. Pour small crystals of the gel in the bottom of a sealable container. Place the flowers on the layer of crystals and carefully begin to cover the flowers with more of crystals of silica gel. Keep on placing the crystals until the flowers are completely covered. In placing the crystals prevent crushing the flowers and petals. After that place a sealable lid on the container and seal it to prevent it from air entry. After a week or so remove the flowers shaking off the excess silica gel.

For quick drying of carnations, they can also be dried by microwave drying method. In a container pour any drying agent. Place the flowers on the layer of drying agent. Cover the bloom completely with the agent. Place it in a microwave along with a small bowl of water. Carnation Flowers get dried within a span time of 3 to 5 minutes. Keep it aside for about 12 hours.

Uses of Carnation
Dried carnations are widely used in dried arrangements. The flower heads are dried and used in potpourri, scented sachets and cosmetic products. Dried carnation flowers are also used for magical purposes. They are used for suffumigation. The magical incense burned by witches to attract spirit is known as suffumigation. They also add energy and power when used during a ritual and as incense.