Question
I live in Florida and would like to grow Mini Carnations on my porch,  I know nothing about the plants.


Answer
I think that by Mini Carnations, you mean Dianthus, also known as "Pinks".
They are great plants for beginners. They are easy to care for, and have great flowers for containers.
Get the best potting soil you can buy. Mix in some time release fertilizer and moisture retaining granuals.Some potting soils already have these added, so try to find that when you buy you soil. You will water less, the plant will stress less in-between watering and you will never have to fertilize again.
When you water, thoroughly soak the soil. Don't get water on the plant. Then let the soil dry before you water again.
Don't over water them.
Dianthus need sun to flower well. I have mine on the East side of my house, so they are shaded from the hot afternoon sun. I have had them there for four years.
Unfortunately, Dianthus don't like humid conditions. So in the South, they are concidered annuals. They will not come back a second year.

bakerplanter