Driftless Seed Supply Grower Resources
Snapdragon Growing Resources
Introduction
Snapdragons, scientifically known as Antirrhinum, are popular flowering plants known for their distinctive "snap" flowers and a wide range of vibrant colors. They are highly valued for their cold tolerance and as beautiful cut flowers.
Variety Selection
- Tall Varieties: Ideal for cut flower production. Orange Wonder is an excellent option.
- Dwarf Varieties: Suitable for bedding and borders. Tetra Mix isn’t quite dwarf stature, but small enough to be suitable for these purposes.
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.
- Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile loam or sandy loam soil.
- Soil pH: Preferably between 6.2 and 7.0.
Planting
- Timing: Plant in early spring for summer blooms or late summer for fall blooms. Snapdragons tolerate frost.
- Spacing: 12 inches apart for tall varieties, 8-12 inches for dwarf varieties.
- Depth: Sow seeds superficially, just tamping into soil surface, as light aids germination.
Irrigation
- Watering Needs: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Method: Drip irrigation or watering at the base to prevent leaf diseases.
Fertilization
- Initial Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting. Avoid too much Nitrogen, which will encourage excess foliar growth at the expense of blooms.
- Ongoing Nutrition: Supplement with a high-phosphorus fertilizer to encourage blooming.
Pest and Disease Management
- Pests: Watch for aphids and caterpillars.
- Diseases: Prevent fungal diseases like rust and powdery mildew with good air circulation and spacing, and by watering at the base.
Harvesting for Cut Flowers
- Timing: Harvest when the lower third of the flowers on a spike are open.
- Method: Cut with sharp shears early in the morning. Place immediately in water.
Post-Harvest Handling
- Cut Stem Care: Keep in cool water, and use floral preservatives to extend vase life.
- Storage: Store at cool temperatures around 36-40°F.
Cold Tolerance
- Hardiness: Snapdragons can tolerate light frosts. They perform well in cool spring and fall weather. Some varieties, such as Orange Wonder, can even tolerate light freezes.
- Protection: Use row covers to protect from harsh frosts.
Additional Tips
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
- Staking: Tall varieties may require support to prevent stem breakage.
Find Your Favorites
Orange Wonder Cold Hardy Snapdragon
Sale priceFrom $4.26 USD
Tetra Snapdragon Mix
Sale priceFrom $4.26 USD