Carnation plants live for several years. They bloom from spring until frost the first year they are planted. They are an excellent cut flower with a long vase life. But above all else, I like the heavenly spicy fragrance of carnation flowers. Growing carnations from seed is extremely easy.
Any container is fine.
If you wish you can recycle half-gallon milk cartons by stapling the opening shut, laying the carton on one side, stabbing a few slits on one side for drainage and cutting out the opposite side. January and February are the best months to sow carnation seeds. Scatter the seeds evenly over the surface and then lightly cover them with soil. The bag maintains an ideal level of humidity, which aids seed germination. My kitchen stove is a gas range with pilot lights and has a work surface between the burners.