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How to Grow Carnation Plants:Carnations plants are very easy to grow. They prefer full sun and a rich, well drained soil. Water them during dry periods, once or twice per week. Add a general purpose fertilizer once or twice a month.Carnations will grow 16-18" and make great borders or edging. Space plants 12" apart.Once your Carnations are established, they will grow well and bloom from the spring and throughout the summer. The perennial varieties are hardy. They will withstand light frosts before going dormant for the winter. Perennials should be mulched for winter protection against extreme cold temperatures.Propagating Carnations:Carnations can be propagated by three ways:By seeds: Seeds can be sowed, 1/8 inch deep in a well-drained mix.Space seeds 12" apart. Make sure the compost is moist but not wet. Firm soil over seed and mist spray occasionally and keep it moist. The seeds will germinate in 2 to 3 weeks.By cuttings: Cuttings taken from the terminal growth can also be used to propagate Carnations. The cuttings, varying from four to six inches long are taken and the basal leaves of at least two to three nodes are removed. The cuttings are then inserted in pure sand. The lower leaves must not touch the surface. Cuttings become ready for transplantation in 25 to 30 days.This method is preferably used in case of perennial Carnations.By division: Carnations can also be grown by division through which we can rejuvenate older plants. Dig up an entire clump, and either pull it apart using your hands to separate the plant segments, or use two gardening forks inserted in the center of the clump, to gently pry the plant apart. Replant each new division as you would a new perennial or annual, and water it in very well.