This classic cool-season annual blooms best during spring and fall.
A classic annual,snapdragons have been grown for generations.
They are one of the few flowers that come in almost every color.
Lynn Karlin.
As a result, they make a great addition to any garden.
Although snapdragons are commonly classified as annuals, they can grow asshort-lived perennialsinUSDA Plant Hardiness Zones 7-10.
Where to Plant Snapdragon
For the best blooms, plant snapdragons in well-drained soil in full sun.
Credit: Lynn Karlin
Although they tolerate partial shade, the number of blooms is reduced.
Snapdragons are cottage garden favorites.
They shine in the middle of a border where you need a splash of vivid color.
Credit: Edward Gohlich
They are also suitable for container growing.
Set out snapdragon transplants six to eight weeks before thelast average frost datein your area.
In warmer climates, plant them in late fall.
Credit: Guy Hurka
If the temperatures dont drop below freezing, snapdragons keep up a blooming show during the winter and spring.
Plant them about 9 inches apart.
After they settle in, pinch the transplants back to two sets of leaves to encourage branching.
Credit: Rick Taylor
Snapdragon Care Tips
Light
For the best show, give snapdragonsas much sun as possible.
Soil and Water
Snapdragons bloom most prolifically in moist,well-drained soil.
Immediately after planting, water the plants daily until they are established.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
In the absence of rain, give the plants about 1 inch of water a week.
If they are kept well-watered over the summer, they might bloom again in the fall.
Fertilizer
Fertilization is not always needed, especially for snapdragons in flowerbeds not used for cut flowers.
Credit: Peter Krumhardt
Pruning
Some old-fashioned varieties of snapdragons are tall, especially those bred for cut-flower production.
Pinch back the young plants to encourage bushy growth and prevent tall varieties from flopping over.
Use a pot with large drainage holes and fill it with a combination of potting mix and compost.
Keep in mind that container plants need more frequent watering than snapdragons in garden soil.
As snapdragons are grown as annuals or short-lived perennials, repotting is usually not required.
Another disease that affects snapdragons ispowdery mildew.
How to Propagate Snapdragons
Propagate snapdragonsfrom cuttingsor seeds.
For more predictable results, purchase fresh seeds from a seed company where pollination is done under controlled conditions.
Butterfly Bronze Snapdragon
Bronze Butterfly bears open-faced,golden-orange flowerson 3-foot-tall plants.
Rocket Red Snapdragon
Rocket Red has sturdy 3-foot stems and crimson-red flowers.
Solstice Yellow Snapdragon
A smaller variety of snapdragon.
Solstice Yellow has spikes of golden-yellow flowers on 2-foot-tall plants.
Technically a tropical shrub, licorice plant is usually grown as an annual in the U.S.
It does best in full sun and well-drained soil.
Petunia
Petuniasare failproof favorites for gardeners everywhere.
They are vigorous growers and prolific bloomers from mid-spring through late fall.
Color choices are nearly limitless, with some sporting beautiful veining and intriguing colors.
Many varieties are sweetly fragrant; sniff the blooms in the garden center to be sure.
Some also tout themselves as weatherproof, meaning the flowers dont close up when water splashes on them.
Wave petunias have made this plant even more popular.
Most salvias dont like cool weather, so plant them outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
Frequently Asked Questions
The smallest varieties grow to no more than 15 inches.
The tallest reaches 48 inches.
Snapdragons are short-lived garden plants.
Deadheading spent blooms is essential.
Also, confirm they receive the water, sunlight, and nutrients they need.
