SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Chill seed 2 days in refrigerator before sowing. Sow thinly on surface and lightly press in, as they require light to germinate.
Seed To Bloom:
12-14 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Recommended. Start in containers 8-10 weeks before last spring frost. Keep at about 60-70°F. A mix specifically for seed germination with added vermiculite is the preferred growing medium to prevent fungal problems. Water only from below by setting containers in a tray.
Starting Outdoors:
Direct sow in spring, 1-2 weeks before last frost for late summer to fall bloom. Mix seeds with fine sand and sow thinly.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
After last spring frost, or in autumn in zones 8+
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Compact selections of snapdragon are easy to manage and add a handsome vertical statement to summer gardens as edging and in containers. An excellent cut flower that blooms all summer where nights cool down, late spring and fall in hotter areas. Pinch when setting out to promote bushy growth and a mass of blooms. A native pollinator favorite, for bumblebees heavy enough to shoulder open the hinged flower emerge rich in nectar and covered with pollen, carrying the gold dusting to the next blossom. Shear after the first flush of bloom and fertilize for renewed fall flowering.
Watering Details:
About 1" per week, moderate tolerance to dry soils once established.
Soil pH:
Prefers neutral but will tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline
Fertilizer:
Fertilize with an organic flower fertilizer monthly.
Diseases & Pests:
Aphids may be an issue—hose down plants with a heavy stream of water regularly until the pest is gone. Place in an area with good circulation to prevent fungal problems. If such issues do arise, plants can be sprayed with an organic fungicide.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
When 1/3 opened
