Giant Chabaud Enfant De Nice

Carnation

Zone 8b Save Garden

Botanical illustration of Giant Chabaud Enfant De Nice

🌱 120d to harvest Upright

Fragrant, ruffled blooms unfurl in abundance—each petal edged like fine lace, carrying a luminous glow that feels almost candleli…

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Jan 12th
Last Frost	Mar 23rd
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Mar 16th
Harvest Begins	Jul 14th
Harvest Ends	Nov 12th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	120
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	Stake
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	65
Min Soil Temp (°F)	45
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	7

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most common disease problem for Dianthus caryophyllus (carnations) like Giant Chabaud, and how do I prevent it?

A frequent issue is fungal leaf spot/botrytis (grey mold), especially when leaves stay wet and airflow is poor. Water at the soil line, avoid getting foliage wet, and remove any spotted or dead leaves promptly; space plants to keep the canopy open. If you see recurring spotting or grey growth, apply a labeled fungicide for ornamental carnations according to the label and improve air circulation immediately.

How often should I water Dianthus caryophyllus during peak growth (roughly weeks 4–10) to keep it healthy?

During active growth, keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy—aim for the top 1 inch to dry slightly between waterings. In typical home gardens this often works out to about 1–2 deep waterings per week, but adjust for heat and soil texture; sandy soils need more frequent deep soaking, heavy soils less. Mulch helps stabilize moisture, but never let mulch sit against the crown.

How can I tell when Giant Chabaud Enfant De Nice (Dianthus caryophyllus) is ready to harvest?

Harvest when flower buds are fully colored and just about to open—petals should be formed but not yet fully flared. For best vase quality, cut early in the morning and choose stems with firm buds (avoid blooms that are already past opening or browning at the edges). With carnations, continue harvesting regularly to encourage additional flowering until the plants decline with cold or heat stress.

Fragrant, ruffled blooms unfurl in abundance—each petal edged like fine lace, carrying a luminous glow that feels almost candlelit in the garden. Giant Chabaud Enfant De Nice forms sturdy, upright stems that hold their showy character through the season, with a richly textured surface and a classic carnation presence that’s equally striking in beds and borders or as a long-lasting cut. Grow it for its grand, celebratory flowers and dependable perennial performance, then enjoy the way it turns every sunny corner into a living bouquet.

Sowing Tips

Transplant Conditions

Wait until soil reaches 45°F and nights stay above 35°F before moving outdoors. Harden off for 7 days first.

Expert Note

Start indoors early for the best bloom timeline, then transplant once nights are consistently mild and plants have a strong root system.