cutting back carnation greens

by Jan Raymond
(Concord, NH)

I live in NH and planted carnations for the first time last year. In the fall the foliage seemed good so I didnt cut it back. It is okay now, but I am wondering should I cut it back? At the base? Thanks, Jan

Doug says do NOT cut back carnations other than a tip pruning and removing of any dead foliage. If you cut them back to the ground, you've killed this overwintering plant and most of them will not recover to resprout. This is a short-lived perennial so enjoy it while it lives.