Will Carnations Survive Zone 5 Winter Without Protection? Spring Hill Carnations Hardiness

Carnations from Spring Hill left in ground in Zone 5, no winter prep.

Hardiness Reality

• True carnations (Dianthus caryophyllus) are hardy only to Zone 7.
• In Zone 5, they’ll likely die unless heavily mulched and in a warm microclimate (Zone 6).

Action

• Cut dead growth now.
• Wait and see.
• If they return, mulch heavily next winter.

Many “carnations” sold are actually hardy Dianthus (pinks). Check the label.