How to Sow Mixed Vienna Meadow Carnation Seeds in the UK 

Mixed Vienna Meadow Carnation, also known as Dwarf Vienna, is a charming perennial plant with a compact mounding habit and evergreen foliage. This UK garden favourite produces sweet, balm-scented, ruffled flowers in a range of pastel shades, including red, pink, beige, purple, and yellow. With long, strong stems, these carnations make excellent cut flowers, adding elegance to floral displays and bouquets. Blooming from July to October, these long-flowering plants reach a height of 45 cm, bringing vibrant colour to borders, beds, and containers. 

When to Sow Mixed Vienna Meadow Carnation Seeds 

• Indoor Sowing: Start seeds indoors from late winter to early spring (February to April). 
• Outdoor Sowing: For outdoor sowing, wait until after the last frost has passed and the soil has warmed up, typically from late spring to early summer (May to June). 

Step-by-Step Guide to Sowing Mixed Vienna Meadow Carnation Seeds 

Indoor Sowing 

1. Prepare the Containers: Use seed trays, pots, or containers filled with fine-grade, well-draining seed compost. Ensure the compost is moist but not waterlogged. 
2. Sow the Seeds: Sprinkle the seeds evenly on the surface of the compost. Gently press them into the soil but do not completely cover them, as they require light to germinate. 
3. Retain Moisture: Cover the seed tray or pots with glass, a propagator lid, or polythene wrap to retain moisture and warmth. 
4. Maintain Temperatures: Place the containers in a bright, warm location such as a windowsill or conservatory. Keep the temperature between 16-20°C (60-68°F) for optimal germination. 
5. Germination Period: Germination typically occurs within 14-30 days. During this period, check the compost regularly and keep it consistently moist. 

Outdoor Sowing 

1. Soil Preparation: Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Loosen the soil and remove any weeds or debris. Adding compost can improve soil quality if needed. 
2. Sow the Seeds: Scatter the seeds on the soil surface and lightly press them in. Do not cover them completely, as light is essential for germination. 
3. Watering: Water the area gently to moisten the soil without causing waterlogging. 

Transplanting and Growing Mixed Vienna Meadow Carnations 

• When to Transplant: Once seedlings are large enough to handle (approximately 5-8 cm tall), transplant them to their final growing location. 
• Spacing: Ensure a spacing of 20-30 cm between plants to allow for their mounding growth habit. 
• Winter Care: Place young plants in a cold frame over winter to protect them from frost and transplant them outdoors the following spring for early blooms. 

Caring for Mixed Vienna Meadow Carnation Plants 

• Sunlight: Plant in full sun to encourage healthy growth and abundant flowering. 
• Watering: Keep the soil moderately moist during dry periods but avoid overwatering, as carnations prefer well-drained conditions. 
• Feeding: Apply a balanced liquid fertiliser once a month during the growing season to support healthy blooms. 
• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming throughout the summer and autumn. 
• Pruning: Cut back the plants in late autumn to encourage new growth the following spring. 

Common Questions About Growing Mixed Vienna Meadow Carnations in the UK 

• Can Mixed Vienna Meadow Carnations grow in containers? Yes, these carnations are ideal for containers and pots. Ensure the containers have good drainage and are placed in a sunny location. 

• How long do carnations take to bloom? If sown early and grown under the right conditions, carnations can bloom within their first year. For outdoor blooms, overwintering young plants often results in earlier flowering the following year. 

• Do carnations self-seed? Yes, Mixed Vienna Meadow Carnations can self-seed if the flowers are left to mature and drop their seeds. 

By following these steps, you can successfully grow Mixed Vienna Meadow Carnations from seed, bringing timeless beauty and fragrance to your garden. Their stunning blooms and low-maintenance care make them a perfect choice for gardeners of all experience levels. 

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