Travelling in the Alpine regions of Europe one is struck by the magnificent and visual impact of their window boxes, hanging baskets, pots, tubs etc. And then we realised that they make liberal use of pendulous carnations adding an extra slant in perspective and design. The colour range is mainly pink and red shades.

Sow spring to autumn in good free draining seed compost, just covering the seed with compost. Germination usually takes 14-21 days at 16-21C (60-70F).

When seedlings are large enough to handle transplant into 8cm (3in) pots. grow cool and finally plant out 9in (23cm) apart into asunny spot in free draining soil, or plant at an angle in hanging baskets or windowboxes where they will spread outwards and downwards.

Overwinter autumn sown plants in a well ventilated cold frame and plant out in spring.