Question
I planted carnation seeds and they are sprouting beautifully.  The package said to "harden off" the seedlings before transplanting.  Do you know what they mean by this?  If not, what should my next step be (I live in Louisville, KY and we still have chances of frost for another 6 to 8 weeks).  I would like to grow them indoors as long as possible.  Thanks!

Angela H
Louisville, KY

Answer
Hi Angela,
Thanx for your question.  Carnations won't grow well indoors unless you're talking about growing them in a greenhouse.  They need a lot of direct sunlight and a window or sunny room just won't do but, that doesn't mean you can't try.

Hardening off means to place the seedlings in a place outdoors that is protected from direct sunlight, wind, rain and temperature extremes.  Right now, it is too cold in the Louisville area to put carnation seedlings outdoors.  You will have to wait until after the last frost then you can harden them off outdoors for a period of 7-10 days.  After that, you can place in your garden in direct sunlight.  

To grow indoors, they need a window that's going to get about 8 hours of direct sunlight or a conservatory (greenhouse).  Keep them watered but not soggy and don't let them dry out.

I hope this helps.
Tom