Let's Look At - Carnations . . .

There are two major preferences of carnations- Standard and Mini.

Carnations are a species of Dianthus Genus. There are HUGE choices of colors and varieties of standard and mini carnations. Standard carnations are a single bloom per stem. Mini carnations have multiple blooms per stem. Carnations work well in many floral designs and are very hardy. They are a popular choice of a full-service flower shop.

Carnations need additional care if they are dry packed. Dry packing is a process used by growers to aid in shipping. Blooms are cut in early stages, bundled, boxed, and placed in coolers. Then, shipped. I have prepared an example of standard carnations that were dry packed. 

Flowers that are dry packed need extra steps in processing. I began by filling a sink with warmer water, add flower preservatives. Test the water by placing your hand in the sink. I want the water hot, but not scalding. Fill a container with the warm water from the sink.  Place the end of the carnations underwater and cut above the lowest nodules of the stems. Place the carnations in the container. Leave the container in a warm, dark area to drink the water. Allow them to drink at least overnight.

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I recut these carnations a second time the next morning. I felt that the blooms could open more. I filled the sink again and added floral preservative. I cut the stems again above the lowest nodules of the stems. At this time, I placed the container in a brighter setting. The next day I continued the processing by placing the container in ice.