Depending on the variety, snapdragons are well suited to growing in pots. Trailing, compact, and mid-height snapdragon varieties make great additions to container plantings. The tallest snapdragon varieties for cut flowers are not well suited for container plantings. Newer trailing snapdragons make great hanging baskets.
Planting Snapdragons in Pots
The best time of year to grow snapdragons in pots is from early spring to early summer and again in the fall. Snapdragons are not well suited to growing in containers in the heat of summer. Full sun locations will promote the most prolific blooms. They can also tolerate part sun locations. Choose a planter with drainage holes that is both wider and deeper than your plants. Terra cotta, glazed ceramics, and sturdy plastic are all good materials for your planter.
Best Soil for Snapdragons In Pots
A good quality, balanced potting mix is the best choice of soil for your snapdragon container. You can add clean, rich compost to your potting soil mix to increase the organic material in your pot. Do not add rocks to the bottom of the pot, which actually impedes drainage. Adding a layer of mulch to the topsoil will help maintain moisture.
Caring For Snapdragons in Planters
It is important to keep a close eye on your potted snapdragons as they are establishing and growing on. Make sure the exposure of the location you’ve chosen is well suited for your potted snapdragons. Container plants can dry out easily since they have such ample drainage. As the plant gets larger, it will need more water.
Watering Snapdragons in Pots
Container plants typically need more frequent watering than garden plants because containers lose moisture more quickly. Containers in full sun will often dry out even quicker. On bright, sunny days, soak your containers 1-2 times a day to fully saturate the soil. On rainy days, make sure your snapdragons get enough moisture.
Fertilizing Snapdragons in Pots
Snapdragons benefit from regular applications of balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer after they start blooming every 2-4 weeks. Containers may need a bit more fertilizer than garden plants due to more frequent watering, diluting the nutrient supply.
Winter Care For Snapdragons in Pots
Most snapdragons are grown as flowering annuals or short-lived perennials and will not overwinter in containers. Snapdragons in containers will likely need to be removed and replaced during the hot summer months if they’re left in full sun. In more temperate climates, snapdragons can be overwintered in a garage or sheltered location to allow them to go dormant over winter.
Growing Snapdragons Indoors
Snapdragons cannot be grown indoors as a houseplant. As short-lived perennials or flowering annuals, they like full sun and are best suited to being grown outdoors.
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Author Katie Endicott - Published 7-05-2022 |