by Carole Meisenhelter

Created on: February 23, 2009   Last Updated: November 20, 2009

Are you thinking about adding a new and vibrant splash of color to your garden beds? Have you ever tried Snapdragons? Not only easy to grow, but also too, they have the charming ability to fascinate any young child in your family. Snapdragon flowers are fascinating to the littlies as they learn to squeeze a flower repeatedly, and delight then in the appearance of an animated 'face'. It might mimic to them, not especially a 'dragon' but a puppy-dog barking, or some imaginary character talking.

Originating in Europe, Snapdragons (genus Antirrhinum), have been a long-standing favorite for many generations of gardeners.

* It's all about height:

We can still continue to observe and enjoy the distinctive beauty and color range available in Snapdragons today. Even though they are in fact a perennial, they are best treated as an annual. Dwarf varieties grow approximately 8 inches (20 cm). Try bringing them up to eye level too with an innovative hanging basket display.

Apart from using Snapdragons in border situations, they are also well suited for planting in pots and tubs. The taller growing varieties will reach up to 2.5 ft (80 cm) in the garden. Some of these may require staking for added support especially if growing in windy locations.

* Where best to plant and cultivating tips:

Look for rust-resistant varieties of Snapdragon seedlings in your nursery or garden center outlet, and plant these into a well prepared alkaline based, fertile soil, in a sunny location. Keep moist until well established. Some light or filtered shade during the hottest part of the day can be tolerated and will only help to maintain color.

Pinch the tips out of Snapdragon seedlings when they reach approximately 4 inches (10 cm). This practice will encourage more side-branches, and subsequently more blooms. Cutting flowering stems for indoor decoration, and dead-heading flowers as they start to fade will keep your plants looking in top condition.

As the first flowering is phasing out, cutting back will allow the Snapdragons to regenerate towards a second flowering. Rejuvenate each plant by feeding now with a liquid fertilizer.

If you've never tried growing Snapdragon's in the past, do be sure to give these striking annuals a try. You're sure to be a captivated admirer when you see them growing in your own garden. Snapdragons certainly deserve a "two green thumbs" rating for their long-standing and well respected reputation within the gardening fraternity.

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