Snapdragon Sonnet Series Antirrhinum majus Sonnet Series, formula mixed

Water

Snapdragons, including the Antirrhinum majus Sonnet Series, should be watered deeply to encourage root growth, but allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. As a general guideline, water these plants once or twice a week, providing about one inch of water each time. Adjust the frequency depending on weather conditions; more frequent watering may be needed in very hot or windy weather. Avoid overhead watering to help prevent fungal diseases and water at the base of the plant instead.

Light

Snapdragons thrive in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for Antirrhinum majus Sonnet Series is a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If you are in an area with very hot summers, light afternoon shade will help protect the plants from intense heat.

Temperature

Snapdragons prefer cooler temperatures and perform best when daytime temperatures are between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to 40 degrees Fahrenheit and maximum temperatures around 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, too much heat can cause the plant to go dormant, and frosts or freezes can kill it.

Pruning

Pruning snapdragons is important for encouraging bushier growth and more blooms. The Antirrhinum majus Sonnet Series should be pinched back when they are about 4 to 6 inches tall to promote branching. Deadheading spent flowers regularly will also encourage more blooms. Prune more extensively if the plant becomes leggy during the season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Snapdragons thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.2 to 7.0. A mixture of loamy soil, peat, and perlite or sand is ideal for optimum growth. Ensure the soil is fertile and enriched with organic matter to provide the necessary nutrients.

Repotting

Snapdragons typically do not require frequent repotting. They are often grown as annuals, so repotting every couple of years or when they outgrow their current container is sufficient. If grown as perennials, repot for soil replenishment.

Humidity & Misting

Snapdragons prefer moderate humidity levels. They can tolerate some variation but avoid overly humid conditions to prevent disease. Aim for humidity levels that mimic their natural outdoor environment, avoiding dry air or dampness.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temps, and adequate airflow for indoor Snapdragons.

• Outdoor

  Plant Snapdragons in full sun to partial shade and protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  7-10 USDA

Life cycle

Antirrhinum majus, commonly known as Snapdragon, begins its life as a seed which, when sown in warm, well-drained soil and given sufficient light, germinates within 7-14 days. The seedlings grow into vegetative plants with sturdy stems and lance-shaped leaves, reaching the transplanting size in about 5-8 weeks. Once transplanted, Snapdragons enter the flowering stage within a few weeks, producing tall spikes of colorful, tubular flowers attractive to pollinators. The blooming period can last from spring to fall, depending on the climate and care provided. After pollination, the flowers fade and are replaced by fruit capsules containing tiny seeds, which will disperse as the capsules dry and crack open. The mature plant eventually senesces after setting seed or it may overwinter in mild climates, completing its life cycle the following season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Antirrhinum majus, commonly known as snapdragons, particularly those in the Sonnet Series, is through sowing seeds. Propagation typically begins in late winter to early spring, about 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost. To propagate snapdragons by seed, one should sow them thinly onto the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix in a tray or pots, barely covering them with a fine layer of soil. The seeds require light to germinate, so they should not be buried deeply. Once sown, the trays should be kept moist and in a bright location with a temperature of about 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 24 degrees Celsius). Germination usually takes 7 to 14 days. After seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to individual pots or to their final location in the garden, ensuring they are acclimatized to outdoor conditions gradually.