Flower Feature: Snapdragons

Bold, beautiful, and impossible to mistake for anything else, snapdragons brim with enduring charm and personality. Their popularity is tied directly to their versatility. You’ll find them in most well-cultivated gardens, usually as part of a classic layout that introduces some vibrant color to the mix.

But the snapdragon, which earns its name from its snout-like flower heads that “snap” open and closed, also makes a thoughtful addition to a contemporary arrangement or indoor garden. It’s found in nearly every color of the rainbow, and while it thrives during springtime it even performs well when it’s cool outside. In fact, snapdragon growth slows during summer’s scorch. With so many different varieties and hues available, it’s no wonder this beauty is so beloved.

Smiles in Sydney on Plantshed.com

Snapdragon Symbolism

There’s great depth behind the snapdragons’ uplifting spirit. It’s a meaningful flower that’s often linked to strength. This is due to its innate ability to thrive in rocky regions where the average plant may not fare quite so well. At the same time, it’s also symbolic of grace and charm. Like so many other flowers, different colors evoke different emotions and meanings. The purple snapdragon represents spirituality, while red is evocative of love, positivity, and passion. A yellow snapdragon offers the same sentiment, exuding joy, happiness, and good fortune. The white snapdragon epitomizes innocence, charm, and purity.

Outdoor Snapdragon Care

Caring for snapdragons is straightforward. If you’re growing them from seeds, make sure that they’re planted in lush soil, ideally in a sunny spot. When that’s not possible, a partially shaded area is usually sufficient. Because they need extensive sun exposure to truly thrive, you may notice they don’t appear as robust if your location is shaded. However, a little bit of shade can be helpful during the summer months, when their growth wanes as it grows warmer outside. Watering regularly is key during this period, as the moisture can help the snapdragons hold on for a few more weeks until they begin to bloom again in the fall.

Regular watering is vital to the snapdragon’s wellbeing, especially during its growth phase. When there’s no rain, make sure to give them at least an inch every week — but don’t overdo it, as too much moisture can lead to wilting and root rot. Once your snapdragons are established, wait until at least the topmost inch of soil is dry before you water. Make sure to detach the tips of the stems to encourage a thicker growth, and to eliminate any decaying flowers to extend the longevity of the plant.

Indoor Snapdragon Care

To maintain snapdragons inside, it’s important to replicate their outdoor experience as much as possible. This means they require as much as eight hours of adequate exposure to direct sunlight, which will help them produce as many flowers as possible. While you might think perching it near the window is enough, that’s surprisingly usually not the case. To ensure that your snapdragon thrives, assist the sunlight with a grow light. That will enhance their clusters, making the blooms appear lusher and livelier.

To encourage flower growth, pinch the plants when the stems reach approximately four inches in height. Deadheading any bloom that looks a little lackluster is another simple way to encourage robust growth. And make sure that your environment is relatively cool to mimic the optimal outdoor conditions that snapdragons favor.

Finally, water them regularly to maintain moist soil, but be careful about overwatering. Soggy soil can lead to root rot, so make sure the pot has drainage holes. Since they’re in full sun, check the soil regularly to ensure it’s not too dry.

With proper care, moisture, and sunlight, you can be certain that your “snaps” will look their best, so you can enjoy their lush texture and radiant colors nearly year-round.