I have a few mini carnation plants in pots on my deck outside. However, they are annuals, and I'd like to bring them inside for the winter so that next year, I will not have to start all over with small plants. It took all spring and summer for them to reach the point where they are large enough to flower well, and I'd really like to winter them over if possible. Does anyone know the best way to do this? Do I keep them in an unheated garage, or indoors under grow lights? I know I can take cuttings of them, but carnations grow so slowly that I don't know if they will be big by spring. Plus, I've never had much luck with cuttings. And I'm not sure fall is the best time to take them anyway. Thanks....

Hi Linda,

I wouldn't suggest you keep them in the garage for the winter as they might freeze. I would bring them in the house for the winter in a sunny window and keep deadheading. Do this before you turn on the heat so they will have time to adjust to the indoor climate.

Good luck,
Newt