Snapdragons Group 3 & 4
Overview:
The snapdragon flower, scientifically known as Antirrhinum majus, is a vibrant and versatile plant often found in gardens and floral arrangements. Its name derives from the unique shape of its flowers, which resemble the face of a dragon that opens and closes its mouth when squeezed. Available in a plethora of colors including pink, red, yellow, and white, snapdragons add a burst of color to any cottage or cut flower garden. This hardy flower thrives in cooler weather and can often be seen blooming in the early spring here in our Zone 9b/10a climate. Aside from their visual appeal, snapdragons are also known to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, making them a powerful addition to any vegetable or herb garden.
Groups 3 & 4 are ‘late’ snapdragons, meaning that they will bloom towards the end of the snapdragon growing season. Sometimes they are referred to as ‘summer snapdragons’ because they will bloom in the summer in cooler climates. They are also a bit more heat resistant than earlier snapdragon varieties making them great for succession planting in colder zones. These snapdragons thrive in cooler temperatures and shorter days to get established. These snapdragons usually send up an initial flush of blooms in April here in zone 9b/ 10a and will bloom into May.
We typically plant ‘early’ ‘all season’ and ‘late’ varieties for good snapdragon flushes all spring long.
Starting seeds:
Starting seeds for Snapdragons is relatively easy. I usually sow 1-2 seeds per cell and thin to one per cell after germination. We surface-sow the seeds ( spring seeds on top of soil) followed by a light sprinkle of vermiculite after sowing. Place humidity dome on top of seedlings and place under a grow light.
Germination occurs typically after 7-14 days Check out my seed starting guide for more tips and tricks for indoor seed starting. Start seeds indoors in August-October in warm climates. Start in late winter/ early spring in colder climates.
When to plant outdoors:
October and November are ideal planting times, but they can be planted up until the end of the year in warm climates. Spring plant in colder zones ( 8 & lower)
Spacing:
6” apart for cut flowers
Sun:
Full sun
Flower Support:
Advised for cut flower production. I use Peony cages or Hortnova netting.
Pinching:
Yes, Pinch plants when they are about 6” tall.
Fertilizing:
Snapdragons are heavy feeders. Give High nitrogen fertilizer to encourage growth in young plants. Weekly liquid fertilizing is also advised for optimal blooms.
Favorite varieties:
