Snapdragons: Plant Care & Growing Guide

Snapdragons are popular short-lived perennials usually grown as annuals. The common name derives from the shape of the individual flower heads, which resemble the snout of a dragon. Bright snapdragon flowers bloom profusely throughout cool weather in intensely saturated colors (almost every hue) and are real standouts in either the spring or fall garden

These flowers come in many varieties and sizes, from a few inches tall to spires approaching four feet. These are great filler plants for containers, baskets, or for planting in garden wall crevices. From seed germination to flowering can take two to three months, so snapdragons are often started indoors many weeks before the last winter frost

Snapdragon Care

Snapdragons are rather slow-growing when planted from seeds, so they are normally planted from purchased nursery seedlings, which are widely sold in economical six-packs. They can also be grown fairly easily from seeds started indoors weeks before the last winter frost.

They do best in rich, well-draining soil in a sunny location, though they'll tolerate part shade. Pinching off the stem tips on young plants will make them bushier, and deadheading the spent flowers will extend the bloom season, often right until the first frost.

Light

Snapdragons will bloom most profusely in full sun to partial shade. Once the temperature heats up, they may stop blooming altogether. Planting them in part shade and keeping them well-watered will help them make it through the summer and they will likely bloom 

again in fall.

Soil

Snapdragons like a neutral soil pH between 6.2 and 7.0, rich in nutrients and well-draining. As short-lived plants, they are not heavy feeders, but adding organic matter will help keep them healthy and blooming.

Water

Keep seedlings moist for the first few weeks. Once established, snapdragon will need approximately one inch of water per week in times of no rainfall.

Water near the crown of the plant and avoid overhead watering to keep your snapdragon healthy. Once established, let the top inch of soil dry fully before watering.

Temperature and Humidity

Snapdragons are tender perennials that are hardy in USDA zones 7-11. They prefer cooler temperatures and are at their best when nighttime temperatures are in the low 40s and daytime temperatures are in the low 70s. For this reason, they are usually grown as annuals.

Once established, snapdragons can withstand sub-freezing temperatures. If you make sure they stay well-watered during cold spells and add a layer of pine straw mulch, they can last for quite some time and will survive quite low temperatures until the chill has passed.