What are the key cultivation techniques for carnations?

1. Soil: Requires well-drained, humus-rich, clayey soil with good fertilizer retention that is slightly alkaline.

2. Watering: Carnations grow vigorously and are relatively drought-tolerant. In rainy and overly wet areas, the soil tends to become compacted, and the root system develops abnormally due to poor aeration, so attention should be paid to loosening the soil and draining water during the rainy season. In addition to timely watering during the peak growing and flowering seasons, water sparingly at other times, just enough to keep the soil moist. The air humidity should preferably be maintained at around 75%; appropriately spraying water to regulate humidity before flowering can prevent the buds from splitting open prematurely.

3. Fertilizing: Carnations are fond of fertilizer. Apply a sufficient amount of baked fertilizer and bone meal before planting, and continue to apply liquid fertilizer throughout the growing period. Generally, apply a dilute, well-rotted fertilizer solution once every 10 days or so, and apply a top dressing once after harvesting the flowers.