Flower of the Month.... Carnations

Celebrate the New Year with the flower heralded as the official birth month flower for January, the Carnation. Sadly, because of their familiarity, carnations get a bad rap. How many times a day do we hear " I don't like Carnations." However Carnations are one of the longest lasting flowers available. They come in many many colors as well as variegated or two-toned colors. They also are one of the only flowers that still has a strong scent even after all the cross breeding that is done in the flower world! They have a pleasant " clove " smell which is sweet. In fact, they were called “clove pinks” because their original color was a pinkish purple. Now days they naturally come in every color of the rainbow with the exception of blue. Additionally, white carnations have long been used to symbolize good luck. With a new year, who doesn’t need a little “good luck?” Oh, did I mention they are inexpensive. So Turn over a new leaf for 2012 and show the Carnation some love.

Carnations have been a flower staple for more than 2,000 years. The Greeks and Romans used them to decorate their homes. Today, carnations are the third top-selling flower in the United States behind roses and chrysanthemums. They look lovely arranged with other types of flowers such as Alstromeria, Iris, Snapdragons, Gerbers, Roses, Lilies, Sunflowers, Asters, Etc... When arranging them a cool trick is to gather three or four together and tie the stems. Then place them in a mixed arrangement with other full flowers. This gives them a fuller look and also strengthens the stems. Arrange several bundles in the vase adding your foliage of choice or simply the flowers for a more contemporary look. Another very chic look for carnations is to bundle six or seven Carnations together and use them as a mound at the top of a shorter stocky container. Use your favorite color but stick to just one color of Carnation. These make very modern centerpieces and are incredibly easy and inexpensive to create.

When selecting carnations, choose those with clear strong color and firm petals that show no browning or rolling of the edges. Stems and leaves should be firm and a lovely gray green color and free of discoloration and lesions. Re-cut the stem with a sharp knife, removing any leaves below the water level. Place in a cool area in a clean vase or bucket with at least 3- 4-inches of water to which an accurately measured amount of flower food has been added until ready to use. To further lengthen their vase life, re-cut the stems and change the water ever four to five days. Keep them cool and out of direct sun and drafts. Also be aware, carnations are sensitive to ethylene gas, which is produced by maturing fruit and vegetables. Carnations properly maintained can last three or more weeks. What a bargain!

Additionally, Carnations are also an edible flower. The petals have been used since the 1600s to make a French liqueur known as Chartreuse. Petals can be steeped in wine, used “candied” or as decorations on cakes and desserts. The miniature Dianthus petals taste like nutmeg and clove making them a tasty addition to salads adding spice and color. If used for consumption flowers should be organically grown or from a local grower who has grown them specifically for that purpose.

Ring in 2012 with a new found appreciation for a very traditional but awesomely versatile carnation. Not only will you enjoy their long lasting simple beauty, but also your budget will appreciate the relief. Visit Mayfield florist to see the wide selection of carnations available.