- Species and varieties: Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) is a popular garden plant known for its colorful and uniquely shaped flowers. There are several varieties of snapdragons, including dwarf, intermediate, and tall types. Some popular varieties include 'Rocket', 'Liberty', 'Sonnet', and 'Madame Butterfly'.
- Hybrid or heirloom: Snapdragon seeds can be both hybrid and heirloom. Hybrid varieties are often bred for specific traits such as color, size, and disease resistance, while heirloom varieties are open-pollinated and have been passed down through generations, maintaining their original characteristics.
- Pruning and training: Regular deadheading (removal of spent flowers) encourages continuous blooming. Pinching back the stems when the plants are young can promote bushier growth. Tall varieties may require staking to support the stems and prevent them from falling over.
- Fertilization needs: Snapdragons benefit from a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer applied at planting time and then every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
- Hardiness zones: Snapdragons are suitable for USDA hardiness zones 7-10. They can be grown as annuals in cooler climates and as perennials in warmer regions.
- Climate requirements: Snapdragons prefer cool weather and can tolerate light frost. They thrive in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). In hotter climates, they may require some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent wilting.