Snapdragons - Groups 1 & 2
Snapdragons - Groups 1&2
Overview & care:
Snapdragons are broken down into 4 categories. I lump 1 & 2 together as well as 3 & 4.
Groups 1 & 2 are earlier snapdragons. These snapdragons thrive in cooler temperatures and shorter days. These snapdragons usually send up an initial flush of blooms in late February/ March here in zone 9b/ 10a. I love growing group 1 / 2 because they bloom early to pair with ranunculus, which usually hit its peak in March for me. I usually rip these plants out by mother’s day.
Starting seeds:
Because these snapdragons thrive in cooler weather, they can be trickier to start from seed than other snapdragon groups. Place seeds in the fridge for a few weeks and sow them in September or October indoors. sprinkle seeds on top of soil as they like light to germinate.
When to plant outdoors:
October and November are ideal planting times, but they can be planted up until the end of the year.
Spacing:
6” apart
Sun:
Full sun
Flower Support:
Advised - especially for chantilly
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:
Chantilly:
Chantilly salmon (above) offers a great orange - salmon ombré that is absolutely Devine. Beautiful must have in the spring garden, florist favorite.
Chantilly ‘Pink’ always reminds me of bubblegum. Cheerful spring pastel that is a perfect addition to any spring cut flower arrangement.
Costa:
Costa snapdragons are another series of early snapdragons. Here is Costa ‘Silver’ a beautiful blush addition to the spring line up. Perfect for wedding work, or for the blush enthusiasts.
Legend series:
Legend ‘Light Pink’ offers a unique vibrant color to your garden. It’s more of an electric lavender if you will. Translucent effect as well. Definitely would grow for a home gardener, or florist.