1. Gigantic- the height of the bush is 90–130 centimeters. In this plant, the stem, located in the center, is much higher than the stems of the second order, while there are no stems of the third order. Popular varieties: "Arthur" - bush height from 90 to 95 centimeters, cherry flowers; "F1 red XL" and "F1 pink XL" - the bush reaches 1.1 meters, the flowers are red and Pink colour(respectively).
2. High- the height of the bush is 60–90 centimeters. They are cultivated for cutting, and also as a vertical accent in groups or in mixborders. The central stem is much higher than the lateral ones. When cut, the flowers of this plant can stand for about 7 days or even longer. The most fragrant varieties are those whose flowers are colored in various shades of yellow. Popular varieties: "Anna German" - flowers are painted in light pink color; "Canary" - flowers of a rich yellow color; a mixture of varieties "Madame Butterfly" - double flowers can be painted in a variety of colors.
3. Medium (semi-tall)- a bush with a height of 40 to 60 centimeters. The varieties are versatile, they are cultivated both for cutting and as decoration for flower beds. They are distinguished by strong branching. The height of the central stem is slightly higher than the lateral ones. Popular varieties: "Golden Monarch" - has a yellow color; "Ruby" - deep pink flowers; "Lipstick Silver" - painted in whitish-pink color.
4. Low- the height of the bush is 25–40 centimeters. They are cultivated as border or flower bed plants. These varieties have a large number of flowering stems of the second and third order, while the central stem has the same height as the stems of the first order or slightly below them. Popular varieties: "Tip-top", "Hobbit", ampelous hybrid plant "Lampion".
5. Dwarf- the height of the bush varies from 15 to 20 centimeters. The varieties are intended for carpet flower beds, ridges, borders, rock gardens. They are also grown as a potted flower. There is strong branching up to stems of the third and fourth order, while the central stem is lower or has the same height as stems of the second order. Popular varieties: "Sakura Blossom" - there is a speck on whitish-pink flowers; Candy Showers is an ampelous variety.

Growing snapdragon from seed

Sowing snapdragon seeds for seedlings can be done from late February, in March, to early April. When sowing, snapdragon seeds are lightly sprinkled with earth. The first shoots begin to appear after ten days, but the germination of snapdragon seeds can take a whole month. For better germination Cover the container with snapdragon seeds with glass or a plastic bag. As soon as the seedlings begin to appear, the film or glass must be removed. For better germination, keep the container with snapdragon seeds at an air temperature of at least +18 oC. Snapdragon seeds can be sown directly into open ground in May by covering the bed with foil or agrospan.

At the first time after germination of the snapdragon, monitor the soil moisture: overdrying, as well as strong waterlogging of the soil, can lead to the death of seedlings. Do not postpone the transplant of snapdragon seedlings for a long time: it should be carried out at the stage of the first two or three true leaves. When the shoots of the snapdragon grow to 4-6 pairs of true leaves, the tops of the plants need to be pinched to form additional stems.

Planting and leaving

Although this plant is unpretentious, it grows better and develops well in places well-lit by the sun and in soils filled with fertilizers. The soil is prepared a week before the snapdragon is planted in the ground.

To do this, for everyone square meter the area chosen for planting a plant must be made:

• 200 grams of wood ash;
• 3 kg of humus or compost;
• one tablespoon of nitrophosphate.

The soil with additives is dug up and leveled. It is best to plant snapdragon seedlings on a cloudy day. Young shoots planted in sunny weather do not take root well. The distance between the seedlings is 25-30 cm. The soil must be loosened throughout the summer period and weeds must be removed from it. Follow all the planting rules - and luxurious flowers in the flower beds are guaranteed to you.

Watering and feeding

It will take about two weeks for the seedlings to take root. After that, the plant is fed for the first time with organic fertilizer. It can be nitrophoska or another fertilizer containing boron as a trace element. Further feeding is done every two weeks all summer and until late autumn. To do this, you can prepare a mixture of superphosphate, sulfate and urea. Snapdragon flowers need constant watering, but excess moisture can kill the plant. Therefore, it is better to water antirrinum as the soil dries up. And to maintain the required moisture level, you can mulch the soil with freshly cut grass or humus.

Temperature regime

For normal growth and good development of snapdragons, the average air temperature should be 22-25 ° C. But this flower is very cold resistant. Therefore, it is able to survive even small frosts: -3-4 ° C.

Air humidity

Due to insufficient air humidity, snapdragons can lower the leaves and suspend their flowering. Therefore, the plant must be sprayed with warm water.

Lighting

Flowers love open, sunny space. Antirrinum will, of course, withstand partial shade, but at the same time it will stretch upward and bloom poorly. Whichever place you choose to grow your snapdragon, the main condition is that it be closed from the piercing wind.

Plant pruning

To create bouquets, cut cut varieties are regularly trimmed. This increases the decorative flowering period. Sluggish inflorescences are only removed from the rest of the varieties, which entails a further increase in the flowering of the snapdragon.

Diseases and pests

It is not so difficult to grow snapdragons, however, in any case, you must follow the basic rules for caring for the plant, otherwise pests and various diseases, such as septoria, may appear. gray rot and a black leg. Before starting treatment, the infected flowers should be removed, after which the soil should be treated with an antifungal agent (fungicite, etc.). Fly larvae, caterpillars, scale insects and butterflies are the main pests of snapdragons. To combat them, special tools are used, which can be purchased at a flower shop.

After flowering

The flowering of such a plant can continue until the first frost in the fall. After the fall is established, it is necessary to cut those snapdragon bushes that are cultivated as perennials very short, so that the height of the shoots is about 5-8 centimeters. Then you need to mulch the area, sprinkling it with a layer of dried foliage or sawdust mixed with peat. In the event that your annual snapdragon grows, then after the flowers begin to wither, you should remove them, thereby avoiding self-seeding. After all the flowers on the arrow have wither, it should be cut as short as possible. This will prevent the seeds from ripening and scattering on the soil surface. After the onset of deep autumn, it is necessary to dig up the soil where the flowers grew, and burn the remnants of the snapdragon, since harmful insects can settle on them.

How and when to collect snapdragon seeds?

As a rule, for most plants, seeds are harvested only after they are fully ripe. However, the collection of snapdragon seeds must be carried out in the phase of incomplete maturity. Then they are placed in a dry, well-ventilated room for ripening. Collect the seeds in a long paper bag (as for a baguette).

It is necessary to start collecting seeds only after the fruits located at the bottom of the peduncle are fully ripe.

To do this, the top of the peduncle, on which there are still green fruits, must be cut off and thrown away. On the part of the flower arrow that remains, you need to put on a bag of paper, tied with a thread below the fruit. Then it remains only to cut the stem below the dressing site. Then hang the inverted bag in a dry and warm place and you just have to wait for the ripe seeds to spill out into the bag by themselves. Ripe seeds should be poured into a small cardboard box and stored in a dry place where the air temperature will be from 3 to 5 degrees. In this case, the boxes must be protected from water ingress.

Snapdragon in garden design

Snapdragon helps out in years when the garden is at the stage, so to speak, of colonization with other plants. Then such bright and unpretentious annuals come to the rescue, with which you can safely fill all the empty spaces in unfinished mixborders. If the plans include a variegated flower bed of annuals, then it is definitely worth including antirrinum in its composition, especially since there is an opportunity to choose a variety not only in color, but also in height.

It fits perfectly into all types of flower beds and looks especially good as a wide strip along a curb or path, a bright spot or even an ornament soloing in the middle of a summer flower bed. By the way, a multi-colored carpet of a flower bed with a complex pattern can be made exclusively from one anti-rhinum, because the palette of colors of its colors is so wide that, by picking up several contrasting shades, you can achieve the effect of a fantasy pattern that is even in texture.

It fits perfectly into all types of flower beds and looks especially good as a wide strip along a curb or path.

Plants from dwarf and stunted groups are planted not only as a curb, but also complete the image of rockeries. In the latter version, antirrinum is naturally and very successfully combined with stones. different breeds... Also, low and ampelous varieties perfectly decorate balconies and terraces in suspended or floor planters... Snapdragon, one of the favorites of the pot garden, is often used as a main background or accent color.

Experimenting, you can combine antirrinum with different types of plants, both perennial and annual. For example, you can come up with an original container composition by decorating a terrace, an entrance to a house or a balcony with it. For example, I can advise you to put in one flower pot or a basket of snapdragons combined with marigolds. To fill in the gaps in the ground, you can plant a periwinkle or loosestrife.

A palette of varieties for a bright flower bed

• Apple Blossom is a medium-sized, double, bicolor variety with a stretch of color from white in the center to pale pink at the edges.
• Scarlet - simple orange-red flowers are collected in dense and tall inflorescences, the plant reaches a height of 50 cm.
• Yellow Flame - flowers of a hot-yellow color, medium-sized plant.
• Bronze - complex flower color includes several shades of yellow, orange and pink flowers... Very showy, medium-sized variety.
• Princess Pink - a loose cone-shaped inflorescence consists of large pink flowers with a dull yellow tint. The bush is medium-sized.

Conclusion

Most growers are familiar with a plant like snapdragon. Therefore, among the plants that they plant in flower beds, it is antirrinum that becomes one of the first. It attracts many because it does not create problems both during planting and in leaving. Therefore, many summer residents are engaged in the cultivation of this plant. Despite the fact that it is possible to grow snapdragons both through seedlings and by sowing in open ground, the first method is most often chosen, since favorable conditions for sowing in cold soil are not always created in spring. However, it is not very difficult to grow snapdragons through seedlings, since care will be reduced only to regular watering. V further care behind him in a flower bed will require regular feeding and loosening.

Snapdragon (Antirrhinum), which is also called antirrinum, is directly related to the genus of herbaceous plants belonging to the plantain family. This genus unites about 50 species of perennial plants, including climbing plants. In the wild, these plants can be found in zones with warm climates, and most of the species are found in North America. In Russia, these flowers are called "dogs", in England "snapdragon" (biting dragon), in France "wolf's mouth", and in Ukraine "mouths". "Antirrinum" in translation from Greek means "nasal", "like a nose." In the ancient Greek myth, which tells about Hercules, or rather, about his first feat, it is said about how he defeated the Nemean lion, the ferocity of which everyone knew. In honor of the victory, the goddess Flora presented Hercules with a gift - it was a lovely flower called "snapdragon". From that time on, the Greeks had a tradition of giving the heroes a snapdragon. This plant has been cultivated for about five hundred years, and German specialists took up its selection only in the 19th century. During this time, they were able to create about 1,000 varieties of snapdragons, while it is interesting that only 1 species was used to create various varieties, namely, antirrhinum majus.

This flower is represented by shrubs, as well as herbaceous plants, which have straight, finely grooved shoots, they are branched and colored green. Their height can vary from 15 to 100 centimeters. The bushes have a pyramidal shape. Above, the leaf plates are alternately located, and below - opposite. Their shape can be lanceolate or oval-elongated, and the color varies from dark to pale green, while the veins are colored red. Fragrant flowers are relatively large, they are two-lipped and have an irregular shape. There are both double flowers and simple ones (depending on the variety), they are part of the inflorescences that have the shape of an ear. Their color can be yellow, pale fawn, white, pink, red (all shades), and there are also varieties with two- and three-color flowers. The fruit is a two-celled polyspermous capsule. 1 g contains 5-8 thousand seeds. This plant begins to bloom in July, and ends after the first autumn frosts.

Often, snapdragons, which grow as a perennial in the wild, are grown by gardeners as an annual. However, if the plant is well cared for, and if conditions are favorable, the frost-resistant snapdragon can survive the winter outdoors. Moreover, next year, its flowering will be more spectacular. V garden design such a flower is grown as a border flower, but it can decorate both a flower bed and green lawn(if snapdragon is planted in groups). Terraces and balconies are also decorated with such a plant. Today, ampelous varieties of such a flower are gaining more and more popularity among florists, for the cultivation of which you can use hanging structures, and they will also become wonderful decoration galleries and terraces.

Sowing

Reproduction of this plant can be done by seeds, as well as vegetatively. The seeds have good germination for several years. In the event that you live in an area with a relatively mild climate, then sowing the seeds of such a flower can be done directly in open soil. The first shoots can be seen after 2.5–3 weeks, while the seedlings are not afraid of cold snaps that occur at night. In the same places where the spring is relatively cold, it is recommended to grow this plant through seedlings. It is very easy to grow snapdragons from seeds.

Seeds are sown in the first days of March. To do this, you will need a bowl, the diameter of which will be at least 10 centimeters, and at the bottom it should have holes for drainage. Coarse sand should be poured at the bottom, and on top of it compost soil mixed with sand. Lightly tamp and level the surface, then moisten it a little with a spray bottle and spread the snapdragon seeds mixed with sand, sprinkle a thin layer of the same substrate on top. Water the crops with a fine spray bottle, and then cover the container with clear glass. Every day, condensation must be removed from the glass surface, while airing the seedlings and, if necessary, moistening the surface of the substrate from the sprayer. If there is moderate humidity and warmth (23 degrees) in the place where the container stands, then the first seedlings can be seen after half a month. After the first plants appear, the container must be transferred to a well-lit, but at the same time protected from direct sunlight, place (so that the plants do not stretch out). After the snapdragon begins to emerge en masse (after 3-4 days), the shelter must be removed permanently.

Seedling

At first, the plants will grow for a long time, and during this period it is especially important to properly moisten the soil. Watering should be done in the morning so that there is enough moisture for the plants, but it would not be too much. The fact is that waterlogging can cause the development of a "black leg". If the seedling has fallen, then it should be carefully removed using tweezers, while the place where it grew should be sprinkled with crushed charcoal or used for this calcined cold river sand. After 2 true leaves are formed, it is necessary to dive the seedlings into a box or container, while they must be placed so that they are not pressed against each other. Also, for picking plants, you can use individual pots, or you can plant 3 seedlings in 1 larger pot at once. Then the plants must be placed in a well-lit, but at the same time protected from direct sunlight, place. After that, you can start hardening the seedlings. To do this, during the daytime, you need to open the window for a while, but drafts should be avoided. When the plant has 4–5 true leaves, it will need to be pinched to increase bushiness, but if the lateral shoots are growing quite quickly, then they should also be pinched.

Landing in open ground

When to plant snapdragons

Snapdragon seedlings should be planted in the last days of May and the first in June. At the same time, you should not be afraid of cold snaps at night, since these plants tolerate them quite calmly. These flowers can be planted both in a sunny area and in a shaded area, but it is worth considering that it must be protected from gusts of wind, and also be well drained. Suitable soil should be light and rich nutrients... A mixture consisting of compost, sand, and peat, which are taken in equal proportions, is best suited for growing such a flower. The acidity of the soil should be pH 6–8.

How to plant

The distance between the bushes during planting depends on the variety of snapdragons. So, between dwarf varieties there should be a distance of 15 centimeters, between undersized varieties - about 20 centimeters, between medium-sized ones - 30 centimeters, and between tall ones - from 40 to 50 centimeters. After the bush transplanted into open ground takes root, it grows rather quickly and becomes a spectacular flowering plant. It must be remembered that it is necessary to plant seedlings in a well-watered soil in advance.

Care features

Growing

Such a flower is undemanding to care for and only needs timely watering, weeding, feeding, and it is also necessary to systematically loosen the soil surface. Watering should be done only during a drought, but remember that this procedure cannot be carried out in the evening. After watering, it will be necessary to loosen the soil surface and weed, this can be done on the same day or every other day. Experts advise, to make a garter of tall varieties to the support. After the flower begins to wither, it must be removed from the bush, as it takes away the strength of the plant. In order for such a plant to bloom for a long time, it should not be allowed to set seeds, and after the last flowers wither, you need to cut the flower arrow. It is necessary to cut the peduncle under the flower located at the very bottom, only in this case new arrows and flowers will grow. The first time to feed the snapdragon is after it takes root after transplanting into open soil, and for this they use nitrophoska and organic fertilizers. The second time you need to feed the plant during budding, in this case, a nutrient solution consisting of potassium sulfate, urea and superphosphate is used, while 1 large spoonful of each substance should be taken in a bucket of water.

Diseases and pests

It happens that the bushes are affected by rust, while specks of red color appear on their surface. Also, this plant is susceptible to infection with black leg, root and gray rot, septoria. Diseased plants must be destroyed as soon as possible, then it is necessary to process the soil area where they grew with a fungicidal (antifungal) agent. For snapdragons, such pests are dangerous as: fly larvae, scale insects, caterpillars, as well as butterflies that are able to lay eggs. It should be remembered that getting rid of diseases or harmful insects is much more difficult than preventing plant infection. For the purpose of prevention, it is necessary to follow all the recommendations for caring for the snapdragon, so it is necessary to timely destroy the sick and infected with harmful insects; flowers should not be planted very close to each other; it is necessary to water correctly, avoiding waterlogging of the soil; watering should be done at the root, while making sure that water does not fall on the surface of the leaf plates.

After flowering

The flowering of such a plant can continue until the first frost in the fall. After the fall is established, it is necessary to cut those snapdragon bushes that are cultivated as perennials very short, so that the height of the shoots is about 5-8 centimeters. Then you need to mulch the area, sprinkling it with a layer of dried foliage or sawdust mixed with peat. In the event that your annual snapdragon grows, then after the flowers begin to wither, you should remove them, thereby avoiding self-seeding. After all the flowers on the arrow have wither, it should be cut as short as possible. This will prevent the seeds from ripening and scattering on the soil surface. After the onset of deep autumn, it is necessary to dig up the soil where the flowers grew, and burn the remnants of the snapdragon, since harmful insects can settle on them.

How and When to Collect Snapdragon Seeds

As a rule, for most plants, seeds are harvested only after they are fully ripe. However, the collection of snapdragon seeds must be carried out in the phase of incomplete maturity. Then they are placed in a dry, well-ventilated room for ripening. Collect the seeds in a long paper bag (as for a baguette). It is necessary to start collecting seeds only after the fruits located at the bottom of the peduncle are fully ripe. To do this, the top of the peduncle, on which there are still green fruits, must be cut off and thrown away. On the part of the flower arrow that remains, you need to put on a bag of paper, tied with a thread below the fruit. Then it remains only to cut the stem below the dressing site. Then hang the inverted bag in a dry and warm place and you just have to wait for the ripe seeds to spill out into the bag by themselves. Ripe seeds should be poured into a small cardboard box and stored in a dry place where the air temperature will be from 3 to 5 degrees. In this case, the boxes must be protected from water ingress.

Main types and varieties

Today, experts have several classifications of this plant according to various characteristics. The most popular classification is by the height of the bush. By the size of the bush, snapdragon varieties are divided into 5 groups:

1. Gigantic- the height of the bush is 90–130 centimeters. In this plant, the stem, located in the center, is much higher than the stems of the second order, while there are no stems of the third order. Popular varieties: "Arthur" - bush height from 90 to 95 centimeters, cherry-colored flowers; "F1 red XL" and "F1 pink XL" - the bush reaches 1.1 meters, the flowers are red and pink (respectively).
2. High- the height of the bush is 60–90 centimeters. They are cultivated for cutting, and also as a vertical accent in groups or in mixborders. The central stem is much higher than the lateral ones. When cut, the flowers of this plant can stand for about 7 days or even longer. The most fragrant varieties are those whose flowers are colored in various shades of yellow. Popular varieties: "Anna German" - flowers are painted in light pink color; "Canary" - flowers of a rich yellow color; a mixture of varieties "Madame Butterfly" - double flowers can be painted in a variety of colors.
3. Medium (semi-tall)- a bush with a height of 40 to 60 centimeters. The varieties are versatile, they are cultivated both for cutting and as decoration for flower beds. They are distinguished by strong branching. The height of the central stem is slightly higher than the lateral ones. Popular varieties: "Golden Monarch" - has a yellow color; "Ruby" - deep pink flowers; "Lipstick Silver" - painted in whitish-pink color.
4. Low- the height of the bush is 25–40 centimeters. They are cultivated as border or flower bed plants. These varieties have a large number of flowering stems of the second and third order, while the central stem has the same height as the stems of the first order or slightly below them. Popular varieties: "Tip-top", "Hobbit", ampelous hybrid plant "Lampion".
5. Dwarf- the height of the bush varies from 15 to 20 centimeters. The varieties are intended for carpet flower beds, ridges, borders, rock gardens. They are also grown as a potted flower. There is strong branching up to stems of the third and fourth order, while the central stem is lower or has the same height as stems of the second order. Popular varieties: "Sakura Blossom" - there is a speck on whitish-pink flowers; Candy Showers is an ampelous variety.

There is also a very popular classification of the snapdragon of Sanderson and Martin for year-round cut varieties. However, this classification is of interest only to those growers who grow snapdragons for sale.

An amazing plant that repeats the contour of the lips and when you press the flower, it opens like a lion's mouth - hence the name. It seems that it has always been fashionable: it is impossible to forget the city flower beds and grandmothers, in the village, multi-colored from the snapdragon. It was also popularly called "dogs" and was very fond of breeding - snapdragons, planting and caring for which do not constitute big problems, was a joy to both retirees and young working amateur flower growers, since it did not require much time.

Sowing: everything is standard

Growing snapdragon from seeds is the best solution. Own seedlings are always of better quality and are several times cheaper. But if you didn't manage to collect even a handful of snapdragons last summer, you can buy several packages. Seeds are stored well - the plant is picky in any form, and seed producers try not to lose their reputation.

For sowing "dogs" it is necessary to choose a suitable container: both plastic containers and clay pots are suitable; prepare the soil and sow.

After sowing, it is advisable to turn the container into a mini-greenhouse, covering the seedlings with glass or cling film and placing them on the windowsill - at a temperature several degrees higher than indoors, the "dogs" will be able to germinate quickly and amicably.

In the process of sowing, it is unnecessary to cover the snapdragon seeds with soil - they are too small and it will be very difficult for them to fight with such a pile of earth (and for them even a millimeter is a thickness) during germination.

Soil composition

Snapdragon, although it is one of the unpretentious plants, will instantly respond to good soil. As well as not low-quality. Therefore, we advise you to pay close attention to the composition of the soil: if a plant can grow in any land, this does not mean at all that it can grow there. And tormenting a flower with an unsuitable soil is ignoble, or something ...

To get a bright and strong snapdragon on a flower bed, cultivation and care must be started from a "clean slate" - from clean, light and non-acidic soil.

The composition of high-quality soil for "dogs" includes:

• peat;
• sod land;
• humus.

Humus should be taken slightly less than two main components, so as not to "overdo it" and not cause some "flower" troubles - diaper rash of the soil and infection of the shoots with the notorious "black leg".

Grow-grow, seed!

What's most enjoyable about growing a snapdragon is its record-fast germination. From the abundance of sun and moisture, the green leaves of future shoots can be observed already on the third or fourth day. The growth and development of young seedlings lasts up to two weeks.

If you need "urgent" flowers to bloom in early June, then you need to have time to sow "dogs" for seedlings before March 20.

Features of the development of young seedlings

Young seedlings are rather weak and insecure plants. They develop very slowly and require very careful care.

For example, watering: here it is important not to overdo it. Snapdragon is not a fan of excessive moisture; it can react to it with illness, or even death. Therefore, new watering should be done no earlier than the top layer of soil dries up after the previous one.

You can dive seedlings no earlier than a month after sowing into containers. By this time, the seedlings will "mature", acquire a pair of strong leaves, which are the main signal that the plants can be dived or planted in a flower bed. During the transplant process, the main task is not to harm the root system of the snapdragon. Although it looks powerful enough, it responds to damage very painfully.

Formation of correct bushes

When the sprouts reach the ten centimeter mark, it is time for another important step in growing snapdragons - the formation of a bush.

The height of the bushes can vary from 15 centimeters to a meter - it all depends on the variety of "dogs" and the preferences of the author of the flower bed. You can devote one area only to the snapdragon and stretch it out in steps: high, medium, low, dwarf. Those who practice such experiments at their dacha assure that they are very pleased: planting and caring for the snapdragon of all varieties is the same and not burdensome, and joys - right up to the first frosts.

But back to the process of formation in a plant correct forms: for this you need to remember to pinch the tops in time. After this simple procedure, the snapdragon will begin to release side shoots, which, after a certain time, will give the bush correctness and accuracy.

Related article: Poinsettia is the most beautiful how to care at home

If the plant is not too generous and gave few shoots, the solution will be to cut too long stems.

Top dressing

We again focus the attention of flower growers that, capable of blooming on poor soils, snapdragons will gratefully accept a full-fledged top dressing, expressing it (gratitude) with abundant and bright flowering.

The first time to "feed" the "dogs" is necessary immediately after the pick. The second - when the seedlings take root - 12-14 days after planting in the ground. The third is after the buds appear. And then - "on demand" to provide the plant with the most comfortable conditions for flowering.

The ideal organic food for "dogs" is nitrophoska. You can mix wood ash.

During the budding period, it is better to use mineral fertilizers as top dressing.

For permanent residence - on a flower bed!

Choosing a place for permanent "residence" of the snapdragon is as easy as shelling pears. The main requirements are sunshine and light fertile soil. In the shade, the snapdragon will bloom, where will it go? But very sparingly and "without enthusiasm."

Plants are transplanted to a flowerbed no earlier than May 25 - "dogs" love stable, stable heat, although over the summer they harden, grow stronger and meet autumn frosts without fear and wilting.

The distance at which the plant must be planted depends solely on the variety.

Tall plants in adulthood, they reach 60-100 cm, they need to be seated more spaciously - at a distance of 40-50 cm.Medium-sized ones - 30-50 cm - need a distance of up to 30 cm.Dwarf, no more than 20 cm in height, feel great at a distance of 20 cm apart.

The quality of flowering depends on care.

There is nothing super complicated in caring for a snapdragon: watering, but not excessive, periodic top dressing and loosening of the soil. The set is standard for all types of plants and is familiar to every summer resident.

It is important not to miss one point: during the flowering period of the snapdragon, which is practically the whole summer, the plants must be freed from wilted inflorescences. Thus, you will preserve the aesthetic appearance of your flower garden, and prolong this wonderful bright flowering time of antirrinum (this is another name of the plant, not very well known to the masses).

The apogee of sowing and caring for snapdragons is the time of a riot of colors of this plant. It is quite long, but it can be extended more and more. The method is simple: tall varieties are simply dug up in the fall and left in pots in a cool room. From these colorful plants, you can organize a whole garden in the corridor or on a closed terrace - and admire it until the New Year.

Snapdragon and frost

This plant has earned the title of one of the most beloved annuals for its amazing frost resistance. Snapdragon flowers retain their brightness and vitality in frosts of up to 5 degrees.

"Dogs" complement the picturesque and colorful picture of autumn, enliven the gray and nondescript. Showing amazing resistance to cold weather, snapdragon pleases the owners with flowers until late autumn. This courageous plant can rightfully be ranked among natural antidepressants. Therefore, if you are looking for ways to save yourself from the autumn blues, snapdragons are the easiest and most affordable.

"Rainbow" without blue

These bizarre flowers are still neglected in modern amateur floriculture. Not everyone knows about their unpretentiousness and variety of colors. Met real people who were surprised to see a snapdragon that was not yellow: their perception of "dogs" was limited to the only variety once seen in the village front garden.

But antirrium is rich in colors, it pleases with white, burgundy, pink, orange flowers... Only blue and blue are missing from the list. The spectrum is not complete, but surprisingly juicy and varied. In addition to basic colors, snapdragons can be painted in shades: from delicate pastel to dark.

Terry varieties of this plant have a super whimsical flower. Its structure is so pretentious that at first glance you can take an ordinary pharynx for some kind of exotic plant.

Snapdragon in nature

Snapdragon is found in the wild in southern European countries. In Greece, for example, this plant can be seen in the forests, there are even legends about it.

Absolutely small and only yellow snapdragons can be seen in the steppe and forest-steppe zones of Ukraine: the south of Kharkov, Dnepropetrovsk, Nikolaev regions. The plant is recognizable, although it looks tiny, in these places they say, "wild". It has some doughiness, it also opens when pressed and blooms as long as the garden one.

Ancient legend

Since the snapdragon was the first to be "discovered" by the Greeks, they could not help but create a beautiful accompanying legend about its appearance.

Not far from the city of Nemea, an aggressive lion has turned up in a dark forest. Not only was the beast vicious, it also turned out to be gluttonous: too often it attacked people. When the lion devoured almost a third of the population, the Germans sounded the alarm and turned to the gods for help, since the earthly warriors turned out to be powerless against the beast: not a single sword pierced the lion's skin, not a single spear hit the cannibal.

Hera was the first to answer the call. She also asked Hercules to help the unfortunate inhabitants of Nemea, exhausted by the unscrupulous antics of the lion.

Knowing that cutting and stabbing weapons against a lion is useless, Hercules tracked down the animal, drove it into a cave and strangled it there.

It was a victory in honor of which the goddess Flora created a flower and presented it to Hercules. The name of the new plant was given the appropriate - snapdragon and its shape turned out to be suitable.

Remembering the feat of Hercules, the girls gave this flower to the soldiers returning from the battlefield.

Cut flower. Storage period

It is not often possible to admire a snapdragon in a flower arrangement, but meanwhile it is the most successful choice for a bouquet. The plant can be used as a base or as additional element- in both cases, the composition will look original.

Another indisputable plus of the pharynx is that in the cut, the flower can remain fresh for up to two weeks and not impose its scent on the room too much.

The unpretentiousness of the snapdragon during sowing and care, the spectacular inflorescences, frost resistance and the presence of a personal legend - is this not a reason to have such a wonderful plant in your garden?

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Antirrinum or snapdragon is a perennial, annual or semi-shrub herbaceous ornamental flowering plant native to the warm Mediterranean countries. In nature, the flower also grows in North America and Europe. The snapdragon plant is also very popular among gardeners. And this is understandable, because amazing colors of buds, bizarre flower shapes and long flowering can decorate any part of the garden throughout the season.

Snapdragon - description, photo

What does snapdragon look like? The antirrinum flower is distinguished by green, straight, finely grooved, large stems, the height of which can be from 15 to 100 cm. The plant has opposite lower leaves and oval or lanceolate elongated upper leaflets. By the beginning of summer, racemose inflorescences with numerous large, two-lipped flowers are formed on the stem. They are irregular in shape and can be plain or terry. The color of the flowers can be pink, red, dark brown, orange, yellow, white. There are varieties with flowers painted in two or three colors at once. Snapdragon blooms from the beginning of summer until the onset of autumn frosts.

In nature, the snapdragon flower is a perennial, however, in regions with cold winters, the plant is grown as an annual. Under favorable conditions and good care, antirrinum in the garden can be grown as a perennial plant.

Growing snapdragon from seed

Sowing seeds in open ground

In regions with a warm climate, antirrinum can be grown as a perennial, planting seeds directly on a flower bed. Sowing is carried out in early spring or from mid to late April. It all depends on the weather in your area. Seedlings will appear in about three weeks and can survive even a slight cold snap.

Seeds are planted on a bed prepared in advance in a nesting way, sprinkled with a thin layer of earth, watered from a watering can with a shower head and covered with a film. Crops are aired daily, and the soil is moistened as needed. As soon as the seedlings appear, the film is removed on warm days. It is better to leave shelter at night.

Slightly grown seedlings will need to be thinned out, removing the weakest plants. In order not to damage the roots of closely growing bushes, it is better not to pull out unnecessary seedlings, but to pinch off. When caring for them, watering should be regular, but not frequent. Seedlings are sensitive to soil moisture, when waterlogged, young plants can get sick with a "black leg". Watering is recommended in the early morning.

Growing seedlings of antirrinum (snapdragon)

With the seedling method of growing annuals, sowing seeds should be started at the beginning of March. For this, seedling containers with drainage holes are prepared. They can be filled with potting soil from the store, or you can make your own using compost soil and sand.

Sowing procedure:

1. Snapdragon seeds are very small, so they are pre-mixed with sand.
2. The soil is poured into a container, leveled and moistened.
3. Seeds are distributed over the surface of the wet soil, which are covered with a thin layer of the prepared soil mixture and carefully moistened with a sprayer.
4. The container is covered from above with cling film, glass or polyethylene to make a greenhouse.
5. Seedling boxes are placed in a place where the air temperature is maintained within +23 degrees.
6. When caring for crops, it is necessary to ventilate the soil daily for several minutes, removing the shelter for this. As needed, the soil is moistened with a sprayer. To do this, use settled water at room temperature.
7. The first seedlings will appear in about two weeks. They should be immediately exposed to a well-lit place. Plants should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
8. After another three or four days, all the seeds should hatch, after which the film or glass will need to be removed.

Features of caring for snapdragon seedlings

The air temperature for the growth of seedlings should be + 20 ... + 23 degrees. They are moistened in a timely manner, and after the appearance of two real leaves, they are seated in disposable cups or other containers. You can use spacious pots by planting three bushes in them at once.

When transplanting seedlings, you can use a special spatula or a simple fork, with which the plants are taken out together with a lump of earth and carefully placed in a pot filled with earth. Antirrhinums do not tolerate transplantation well, so everything must be done so as not to damage the roots. The planted plants are carefully watered.

The cut seedlings are grown in a well-lit place, otherwise, with a lack of light, the stems will begin to stretch out. Watering the bushes should be borne in mind that snapdragon does not like waterlogging of the soil. Constantly wet soil can lead to root rot and the appearance of a disease such as black leg. However, it is impossible to overdry the soil.

To stimulate the growth of lateral shoots in seedlings 10 cm high, pinch the top. At this time, they should have 4 or 5 real leaves. After this procedure, the snapdragon will turn into a beautiful, lush bush. If the overgrown side shoots begin to grow too actively, they can also be pinched.

Approximately two to three weeks before planting antirrinum in open ground, the seedlings begin to harden. On warm days, she is exhibited in the garden or on open balcony... On the first day, hardening of plants is carried out for one hour. Every day the time spent on seedlings fresh air increases. In the last days before planting, the seedlings should be outdoors for 24 hours.

Planting snapdragon outdoors

For anti-rhinum, a sunny or slightly shaded area is selected, which should be protected from strong wind.

When to Plant Snapdragon?

Seasoned and grown seedlings on a flower bed in the garden can be planted in late May or early June. Warm weather should be established, however, the plants are able to survive small, short-term night frosts.

How to plant snapdragon?

The soil for antirrinum should be well-drained, nutritious and light. It is best if it will consist of compost, sand and peat (1: 1: 1).

For each bush, a separate planting hole is made, the distance between which depends on the height of the plant:

1. Dwarf antirrinums are planted in a flower bed with a distance of 15 cm from each other.
2. There should be a gap of 20 cm between undersized specimens.
3. Tall snapdragon bushes are planted from each other at a distance of 40 or 50 cm. Immediately during planting, it is recommended to install supports near tall specimens, to which the grown plants will need to be tied.

After planting, the seedlings must be watered.

Snapdragon - care

Snapdragon refers to unpretentious plants that do not require much attention to themselves during the season. The bushes will bloom magnificently and for a long time if you follow the simple recommendations for caring for them:

1. In dry and hot weather, plants require watering. This should be done early in the morning. It is not recommended to water the snapdragon at night. If it rains, there is no need to water the flowers.
2. After rain or watering, it is recommended to remove weeds and loosen the soil around the plantings about once a week. Such a procedure will not allow a crust to form on the ground, and air will flow to the plant roots.
3. After about two weeks, when the seedlings take root and begin to grow, they are fed with universal fertilizer for flowering plants.
4. During budding, it is recommended to feed the bushes with a solution prepared from a mixture of potassium sulfate, urea and superphosphate. For its preparation, take a tablespoon of each fertilizer. The mixture is diluted in 10 liters of water.
5. Withered flowers should be removed regularly so that new buds form faster.
6. After flowering, fruits begin to form and ripen on the peduncle. If you do not need seeds, then the faded peduncle under the lowest flower is cut off. In this case, after a while, new arrows will appear on the bush and begin to grow, which will soon bloom.
7. In regions with not very cold winters, where the snapdragon is grown as a perennial plant, the stem of the plant should be cut off in the fall when the cold days come. The remainder of the stem should have a height of 5 to 8 cm. After that, the bushes are covered with dry foliage or peat mixed with sawdust.

Snapdragon pests and diseases

Observing all the rules for caring for antirrinum, plants will not be afraid of any diseases and pests. Preventive measures include:

1. Moderate wetting of the area.
2. Planting bushes at a distance of 15 to 50 cm (it all depends on the variety of snapdragons).
3. Specimens affected by pests and diseases must be removed immediately.
4. Watering the bushes should only be at the root so that water does not get on the leaves.

If, nevertheless, pests have settled on the plants, then the bushes are treated with insecticidal preparations. Of the pests for snapdragons, caterpillars and butterflies, larvae of flies, and scale insects are dangerous.

Of the diseases, the flower can infect gray or root rot, black leg and septoria. All these diseases cannot be cured, and at the same time they quickly spread to other plants. Therefore, diseased bushes are pulled out and burned. The soil on which they grew must be shed with fungicidal antifungal drugs.

Profusely blooming beautiful plant antirrinum (snapdragon) until late autumn will decorate the garden with its bright or delicate flowers... Its low-growing varieties can be planted in a box or flowerpot and decorate a balcony or loggia.

In this article, you will find detailed information on the snapdragon flower. Planting, care, growing for seedlings, planting in open ground, popular varieties.

Snapdragon, Antirrhinum is a plant from the Plantain family.

This is a perennial herb, we grow it mainly as an annual. Distributed in North America.

In Russia, it is grown in gardens and flower beds.

The plant is considered one of the most popular, its decorative qualities attract experienced gardeners and flower lovers.

Snapdragon - Planting and Care

Description of the plant

The merits include unusual shape flower, unpretentious care, a wide variety of colors and colorful, long flowering in the summer.

Height ranges from 15 to 130 cm. Snapdragon forms a pyramidal branching bush.

Green branchy stems with oval-shaped leaves are light green to dark green in color.

The flowers are large, collected in inflorescences, 2-4 cm in size.

The shape of the flower is like two lips, if you squeeze the bottom of the flower, you get something like the mouth of a lion. Hence the name snapdragon.

The color of the flowers is varied: yellow, pink, burgundy, red, white with various shades of these colors.

There are varieties where two colors are combined on one flower at once.

The fruit is a small capsule with many small seeds.

Snapdragon - popular varieties

In nature, there are more than 45 species of this plant and up to 1000 varieties.

In snapdragons, varieties are distinguished depending on the height of the plant.

Plant groups:

1. Gigantic. Plant height from 90 to 130 cm. The central shoot of these plants grows up to 130 cm in height and is characterized by the absence of lower shoots. The flowers of this variety are the largest.
2. High. The height of the plants is from 60 to 90 cm. The lateral shoots are lower in height than the central one. Mainly grown for cut. The most fragrant varieties yellow color cut plants can last longer than a week. Grow best in a sunny location.
3. Medium-sized. Height from 40 to 60 cm. This group includes universal species, grown in flower beds and also go for cutting. There are fewer flowers in the inflorescence than in other groups. The flower size is average. The group is distinguished by strong branching of shoots.
4. Stunted. Height from 25 to 40 cm. The main shoot is lower than the lateral ones in height. They are grown on flower beds and borders. They have an early flowering period, but they do not bloom as abundantly as other groups. This group is the most popular among gardeners. Beautiful, decorative flowers, grown on rabatki, flower beds, street flowerpots together with other flowers, creating a garden decor.
5. Dwarf. A group from 15 to 25 cm high. It has a strong branching of shoots, blooms profusely all summer. Mainly grown as annuals for garden decoration and design. In summer it looks like a colored carpet on the ground. Suitable for growing in pots, even in indoor conditions... The flowers are very small, the stems are short.

Snapdragon seedlings - cultivation features

Plants are propagated by seeds and cuttings.

• How to grow snapdragon seedlings?

The most common planting method is seedling.

You can sow seeds directly into the open ground, they will withstand a slight cold snap and will sprout in three weeks.

Sowing seeds begin in early March in seedling boxes.

Since snapdragon seeds are very small, they are sown in boxes without soil.

The soil can be sprayed from a spray bottle so that the seeds penetrate a little into its thickness.

Then you need to close the pots with foil or glass to create a microclimate.

Every day, a flop or film is removed, the condensate is wiped off, it is necessary to moisten it only as needed.

The microclimate is preserved under the film and high humidity, and there is no particular need to water every day.

Antirrinum seeds germinate at a temperature of 22 degrees and moderate soil moisture.

Seedlings appear in 8-10 days, grow very slowly.

As soon as the seeds have sprouted, the pots are placed in a bright place, without the sun, and periodically opening the film they are left open.

Light is necessary for plants so that they do not become weak and frail and do not stretch out.

The seedlings of the plant grow slowly, they need to be watered a little, it is better in the morning.

When watering, avoid excess moisture, from which a black leg develops and the plant dies. The soil between shoots can be sprinkled with sand or charcoal.

After the development of 2-3 true leaves, the seedlings dive into separate pots or thin out in the same box where they were originally planted.

Snapdragon takes a dive well.

Plants should be left in a bright place, avoiding direct sunlight.

Seedlings should be periodically hardened by opening the window and airing the room to prepare the plant for planting in the garden.

After hardening, the plant transplanted to the site can survive slight frosts.

1. When the seedling grows to 8 cm in height, it must be pinched over 5 pairs of leaves.
2. After pinching, lateral shoots appear, which quickly begin to grow. These shoots will also need to be pinched later, in order for the plant to have a magnificent appearance. It is advisable to do this with each new shoot to form a flower bush.
3. Planting seedlings on the site takes place in late May or early June. High grades must be tied up, otherwise they will break from the wind.
4. Further, the snapdragon begins to actively and quickly grow and will delight with its flowering in June.

Where can you plant snapdragons?

Tall hybrids of snapdragons with large flowers are cut, the inflorescences stand in the water for up to 10-14 days, small plants are used for planting in flower beds, and flower beds are used to create flower beds.

Dwarf plants are good for low curbs, balconies, and look good on alpine slides.

Snapdragon flower blends create gorgeous flower bed rugs or flower beds.

How to care for flowers?

The plant blooms from June to the first frost. With the timely removal of fading inflorescences, it blooms continuously.

It grows well on light soils saturated with organic fertilizers and microelements.

Antirrinum is an unpretentious plant, does not like too wet soil.

Care consists in weeding, moderate watering and occasional loosening of the soil.

The plant is light-loving and cold-resistant, tolerates frosts down to -5 ° C.

What to plant with?

The best neighbors are sage, sea lobularia, kosmeya. Thanks to its bright colors, it becomes the main thing in the flower bed; non-flowering flowers with beautiful leaves can be planted around.

Diseases: rust, septoria, root rot.

They are treated with the "Hom" preparation. The first treatment is carried out in seedlings or just for prophylaxis: 1 teaspoon is diluted in 1 liter of water. During the growth period, the plants are re-treated before flowering: 40 g of the Khom preparation are diluted into 10 liters of water and sprayed at the rate of 1 liter of solution per 8–10 sq. M. m.

Snapdragon prefers open areas, a sunny place, but also grows in partial shade, although it stretches a little and blooms less abundantly.

It is very useful to mulch peat between plants, humus - flowering increases markedly.

In hot, dry weather, snapdragons require watering, but waterlogging is harmful.

• How and when to feed snapdragons?

When the plants take root, they are fed:

1. The first feeding is carried out 12-15 days after planting the seedlings in a permanent place: 1 tablespoon of nitrophosphate and organic fertilizer "Flower" is diluted into 10 liters of water, spending 2 liters per 1 sq. M. m.
2. The second feeding is carried out when the first buds appear: 1 tablespoon of urea, potassium sulfate and superphosphate is diluted in 10 liters of water, consuming a solution of 3-4 liters per 1 sq. m.

New varieties of snapdragons appear every year.

The ease of growing and care attracts gardeners. Until the very frost, snapdragon pleases the eye with its varied flowering.

The flower mesmerizes with its beauty and grace.

It will create comfort and improve the landscape design of any garden or cottage.

Have a beautiful garden!

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Snapdragon: varieties and 3 conditions successful cultivation

Snapdragon is a herb that belongs to the plantain family. Today there are about 50 varieties and species. For the first time this culture appeared on the territory of North America, and only a century later was it brought to Russia. I'll tell you about the types, cultivation and care of snapdragons.

Variety of species

The plant has long, branching and lanceolate leaves. Flowers of an unusual two-lipped shape with non-accrete petals.

Almost all varieties and types of snapdragons are characterized by rich and vibrant colors. It can be either one-color or two-color.

There are varietal inflorescences with stripes and specks. The most popular shades are:

• purple,
• burgundy,
• red,
• pink,
• white,
• yellow,
• orange,
• light green,
• cornflower blue,
• blue,
• blue,
• lilac.

As for the varieties, there is a huge selection:

Photo	Description
	Giant snapdragon Height: 90–130 cm. Most often this variety is grown for cut. The trunk has few branches. The flowers are large enough, sometimes double. They form large and bright inflorescences.
	Tall Height: 60-70 cm. This compact view, characterized by an insignificant number of branches. Snapdragon is characterized by large and abundant flowering in late summer.
	Medium Snapdragon Height: 40-60 cm. Has many lateral branches. Differs in abundant flowering, which occurs in very different periods.
	Stunted snapdragon Height: 20–40 cm. The main stem produces a significant number of branches covered with lush foliage. The first and second row of branches is formed. Inflorescences are presented in a variety of colors. Middle and early varieties are distinguished.
	Dwarf Height: less than 20 cm. The main stem forms a large number of short branches. The inflorescences are also quite short. Snapdragon has medium-sized, bright and graceful flowers.

The Antorrinum variety is most often planted in open ground. And undersized varieties can be planted on the balcony. All types of snapdragons are characterized by lush and long flowering, fragrant and persistent scent that attracts insects. The flower stands well in a vase - from 7 days to two weeks.

How to care?

Snapdragon loves and grows well in fertile soils with a good drainage system. The soil can be slightly acidic or neutral.

Before planting the culture, the soil is dug up to a depth of 40 cm. This is due to the fact that the root of the plant has a rod-like shape.

The plant is quite demanding on lighting. Snapdragon loves the sun, but cannot tolerate direct sunlight.

Flowers grow well enough in partial shade. You can, for example, plant a plant next to a tree crown, a gazebo, or near a house. The crop is characterized by drought tolerance and needs to be watered exclusively during the dry season.

Some snapdragon varieties can bloom before the first snow cover. But do not delay the preparation for the winter period.

With the onset of the first autumn frosts, the plant must be cut to a height of at least 5 cm from the ground. You should also not leave the height of the bush more than 10 cm.

You need to cover the bushes of the snapdragon with fallen leaves or spruce branches. And in early spring it is necessary to promptly remove the "cover" in order to prevent the formation of stagnant water in the soil, which will have a detrimental effect on the subsequent development and flowering of the garden culture.

When growing annual varieties, it is necessary to promptly remove withered inflorescences, as they slow down the further formation of peduncles.

With the onset of autumn frosts, the snapdragon bush is completely removed. Better to dig it up and burn it. The used soil is dug up and left alone for the winter.

Condition 1. Top dressing

Snapdragon is a rather unpretentious garden crop, does not require regular nutrition and fertilization. But if you have the desire to receive profuse flowering, then it is worth thinking about providing the flower with mineral and combined fertilizers.

A perennial plant is good for nitrogen, calcium and magnesium. This should be taken into account when choosing fertilizers. Top dressing should be carried out no earlier than a week after planting the plant in open ground. Fertilizer is applied just before watering.

To grow the sturdiest, strongest stems possible, some snapdragon varieties need to be planted near a support. The support can be artificial, for example, a lattice with 10x10 cm cells. This size is considered optimal.

Condition 2. Methods of reproduction

Photo	Description
	Method 1. Seeds Seeds can be purchased in specialized stores or collected from the bush you like on your own. Snapdragon seed is contained in a capsule, which has time to fully form by mid-September. Ripening of the seed occurs two months after the beginning of flowering. After collecting the capsules, the seeds are released and poured into a cloth bag. It is best to store them in the refrigerator before planting.
	Method 2. Cuttings Snapdragon is successfully propagated by cuttings. Young twigs can only be rooted in dry sand. Healthy cuttings can be obtained from a mother plant that has wintered indoors. In the spring, it germinates, and all young branches are planted in the chosen place.

Condition 3. Landing

Growing horticultural crops is possible with seeds. It is better if the seeds are planted immediately to a permanent place, since the snapdragon negatively transfers the transplant.

This is considered optimal for growing in the southern regions, but for the northern regions it is better to grow the crop with seedlings.

Seed planting begins in March. It should be borne in mind that flowering occurs 90–120 days after sowing. The land must be combined, that is, consist of sand and perlite.

Seed planting process:

• Better to use flat and shallow containers. The earth is pre-compacted, it must be dense.
• The seeds are mixed with dry sand. This greatly facilitates the planting process, since the seeds are quite small.
• Seeds do not need to be sprinkled with earth, just sprinkle with water from a spray bottle.
• The container is covered with a transparent lid or plastic bag.
• During germination, it is desirable to maintain a constant temperature of +20 ° C.

When condensation occurs, it must be removed daily. Airing the crops is also an obligatory stage in growing seedlings. Snapdragon loves watering on time, so it is produced only as needed. Do not allow the soil to dry out.

A pick is made when the third true sheet appears. Bushes are planted in small containers, which will allow the formation of a full-fledged root system. A complete root system is considered to be the main root with the corresponding branches.

In mid-April, seedlings can be taught to the natural climatic conditions:

• Regular airing.
• Carrying out seedlings to the balcony.
• Seedlings are left overnight on a glassed-in balcony.

At the end of May, seedlings are planted in open ground. Flowering occurs in early June, and with proper care, it will continue throughout the summer.

Pests and diseases

Snapdragon, like all horticultural crops, is attacked by pests and may collide with dangerous diseases... The most common are:

• Powdery mildew.
• Blackleg.
• Fusarium.
• Root rot.
• Rust.
• Verticillosis.

Most often, pests, infections and diseases "attack" a given garden crop during a period of high air humidity or under conditions of high soil moisture.

In order to prevent disease, the flower must be treated with appropriate products that can be purchased in garden stores. For example, it can be fungicides or Alirin solution.

If a diseased plant is identified on the flower bed, then it must be removed and destroyed. This method will completely get rid of the pests.

Conclusion

Snapdragon is amazing garden plant, which will be an excellent landscape addition to the garden plot. Manifold colors and shapes of inflorescences will give unusual view flowerbed.

The video in this article confirms what was said with visual information. And if you have any questions or suggestions - we will discuss in the comments!

February 9, 2018

If you want to express gratitude, add clarification or objection, ask the author something - add a comment or say thank you!

INTRODUCTION TO ANTIRRINUM

Taxonomy

Snapdragon is a flower with a funny name, familiar from childhood. Among professionals, its botanical name is often used - Antirrhinum, or more accurately, Antirrhinum majus. This is one of 50 species of the genus Antirrinum of the plantain family, on its basis decorative crop varieties have been created. In nature, snapdragon is a herbaceous perennial that grows in the countries of the Mediterranean coast. In our country, its rhizome cannot overwinter in freezing soil, so the annual cultivation of snapdragon from seeds is simply a necessary procedure if you want to have these wonderful flowers in the garden or on the balcony.

Names

The scientific "antirrinum" translated from Greek means "reminiscent of the nose" ("anti" - similar, "rhinos" - nose). And the flower received the familiar name "snapdragon" for its property, when pressing the "throat", to open its "mouth", like the mouth of a lion. In English speaking countries, it is known as the "biting dragon" (snapdragon), and in France as the "mouth of the wolf" (gueule de loup). Our grandmothers are more familiar with antirrinum under the affectionate name of "dogs". Interestingly, according to legend, he owes his appearance to the goddess Flora, who created him after the victory of Hercules over the lion.

Description

The height of the branchy pyramidal woody bush at the bottom varies from 30 to 70 cm (in varieties from 15 to 110 cm). Very rarely, 2-meter specimens are found in nature. Leaves are lanceolate, medium-sized, small at the top. Bisexual flowers, from 3 to 4.5 cm (in varieties up to 7 cm), irregular shape, two-lipped, with a closed long corolla, they are collected in large racemose inflorescences. Only bees and bumblebees can get to the cherished nectar, which, with their body weight, can slightly open the lower lip of the flower and penetrate into the “mouth”. After that, the flower closes its lips over them, leaving pollen on the bodies of insects, thus taking care of the appearance of its "offspring" (small numerous seeds).

Snapdragon is traditionally grown in private households, used in urban landscaping of parks, squares, streets. Why is he so good?

5 REASONS TO PLANT ANTIRRINUM IN THE GARDEN

1. A huge variety of varieties for every taste - both in size, and in color, and in the degree of terry.
2. Long and abundant flowering: 3-4 months without interruption.
3. Cold resistance - seedlings and hardened seedlings withstand short-term frosts on soil up to -4 ⁰С, bloom even in October.
4. Ability to save mother liquors from especially liked varieties. Snapdragon by its own biological characteristics is an perennial plant like petunia , ageratum , verbena and many others, traditionally used as annuals, crops.
5. Abundant self-seeding - this property is very useful!

HOW TO CHOOSE A VARIETY?

One of the most important characteristics of a snapdragon, in addition to the color and doubleness of the flowers, is the height of its bush. Tall plants (from 75 to 140 cm) are grown mainly for cutting in specialized nurseries. For amateur flower growers, two other groups of antirrinums are of much greater interest: medium-sized (from 40 to 70 cm) and undersized (from 15 to 35 cm) snapdragon varieties. The last group also includes the latest varieties of ampel antirrinums grown in hanging planters or floor containers - solo or as part of compositions with other colors. So, choose varieties for planting, based on their further use - for cutting, in a flower garden or in a pot culture.

Pay attention to the flowering time of the variety. Early, middle and late varieties antirrinum bloom with a difference of at least 10 days. Usually, the first flowers appear 70-80 days after germination. Having decided on the choice, you can start sowing the snapdragon.

CULTIVATING LIONDARNESS FROM SEEDS

Seedling method - the best option for residents of regions with long winters and cold springs. As a substrate for sowing, you can use light garden soil with the addition of sand and peat, the ideal soil acidity (pH) is not higher than 6.5, otherwise you will face the problem of iron deficiency and, as a result, leaf chlorosis in snapdragons.

When to plant snapdragons for seedlings?

Calculate the timing based on the fact that the age of the seedlings at the time of planting in open ground should be about 6-8 weeks. For middle lane sowing in mid-March will be acceptable if it is planned to plant seedlings in open ground in mid-May.

Sowing

So, in sifted and thermally treated soil, sow the seeds on a moistened surface along the marked grooves. Do not plant deeply, only lightly sprinkle with dry clean sand or vermiculite, you can completely spread the seeds over the surface and press them slightly against the soil. Then spray them with a spray bottle. Cover the container with crops with foil or glass / plastic. Seeds germinate in the light at t + 20-22⁰C for 5-7 days, but sometimes the wait stretches up to 2 weeks. Antirrinum seeds are very small and are often sold in granules. During germination, the pellet shell must remain moist, but not wet or dry.

Picking

When the first true leaf appears, pick into small pots or cassettes (up to 7 cm across). Further, the seedlings of snapdragons should be kept in a bright room at a daytime temperature of +17 to + 22⁰C, and at night around + 16⁰C. The maximum daily temperature limit is + 24⁰C, otherwise the plants will begin to stretch.

Seedling care

A week after the dive, the snapdragon can be fed for the first time with a ready-made full mineral fertilizer(Solution, Kristallon, Fertika, etc.), or you can mix 1 tablespoon each. urea, superphosphate and any potash fertilizer, for example, potassium sulfate, and dilute it all in 10 liters of water. In the future, fertilizing watering can be carried out every week, reducing the concentration by half.

Approximately 1 week before planting in the ground (and this is usually done at the end of April), the seedlings begin to harden. To do this, lower the daily temperature, more often ventilate the plants and reduce watering.

Growing from seed by direct sowing in the ground

Some amateur flower growers prefer to sow snapdragon directly into the open ground, this can be done when the daytime air temperature settles around + 10-12⁰C. Growing from seeds in this way certainly has a right to exist, although with it you will be able to admire the first flowering of antirrinum not earlier than July, or even August.

Cultivation of snapdragons from seeds is also carried out in late autumn or at the beginning of winter in ridges prepared in advance, along frozen grooves. The sowing depth is up to 1 cm, they are sprinkled on top with dry humus or peat, they can be additionally mulched with leaf litter and / or a covering film. Plants grown using winter sowing bloom earlier than others and have enviable health.

Features of growing from seeds of ampel antirrinum

The main difference in this case will be the ban on pinching seedlings, which is recommended for ordinary varieties after planting in the ground. Thanks to the pinching, such plants bush better, bloom longer and do not stretch. For ampelous plants, on the contrary, elongated shoots are important, effectively hanging over the edge of the pots. Pinching will delay their flowering.

WHERE TO PLANT ANTIRRINUM

Snapdragon grows well in a sunny, windless place, but it can tolerate partial shade during the day. The soil for it should be moderately loose and fertile, loam will be the best. When landing, you need to ensure good drainage or choose a place where water does not stagnate during rains and irrigation.

LIONDARRY: SUMMER CARE

1 week after planting the seedlings in a permanent place, you need to carry out the first feeding. The key nutrients for snapdragon are nitrogen, calcium and magnesium, and according to some sources also boron. Calcium is needed for the special resistance of the plant, i.e. the strength of its stems, and magnesium is responsible for healthy and resilient leaves. Fertilization rates up to 10 g / m², frequency - every 7-10 days until the beginning of flowering.

Withered inflorescences do not add elegance to the flower garden, moreover, they reduce flowering, so it is better to remove them in a timely manner.

In May and September, snapdragon does not need frequent watering (with sufficient rainfall), in the remaining months, on average, water once or twice a week, soaking the soil to a depth of at least 20 cm. Plants in containers are watered more often. This should be done at the root, preferably without wetting the foliage, in order to avoid troubles in the form of fungal diseases.

We must not forget about weeding and loosening the soil around the antirrinum. It is better to tie tall plants to a support so that the wind does not break them. And if the summer is not very hot, the flowering will last for a long time. In the southern regions, plants often suffer from strong sun and drought, so their growing season is short.

DISEASES AND PESTS

One of the most common diseases of snapdragon is rust caused by rust fungus. Preventive measures are root watering of plants and non-thickening of plantings and, as a result, their good ventilation. In addition, make it a rule, when planting in open ground, to treat all seedlings with any stimulant (Zircon, Epin, HB-101, etc.) to increase the immunity of plants. The infected plants are removed, and the rest are treated with a suitable fungicide (Maxim, Topaz, etc.), and the concentration of the drug can be increased 1.5 times.

Snapdragon is also affected by downy mildew, fusarium wilting, black leg (at the seedling stage). Of the pests, caterpillars, aphids, thrips and others can cause significant harm, and not at the growth stage (foliage does not attract them!), But at the beginning of flowering. Here you can only advise to regularly check the plantings, preferably at least 1 time in 3 days, in order to take timely measures to destroy the pests.

HOW TO COLLECT LIONDARN SEEDS

Seed ripening occurs on one plant at different times. This is due to the fact that the flowers bloom on the cluster, starting from the lower buds, and the seed pods ripen in the same order. When a yellow-brown color is obtained, the lower 2/3 of the seedlings are collected and the seeds are carefully taken out, which remain viable for 4 years. Remember that seed can only be harvested from varieties, not hybrids. But even in this case, one thing is required. important condition... Within a radius of at least 100 meters, and preferably more, only one variety of antirrinum should grow. Otherwise, cross-pollination will occur and the seeds will not inherit varietal qualities.

CUTTING THE LION'S PHOTO

If you grew a snapdragon flower from seeds of stunning beauty, but you did not have time to harvest from it (or it was a hybrid with the marking F1), then you can save the mother plant until next spring. How? Easy peasy! In September, dig a bush you like in the garden, plant it in a suitable planter, cut off all thin branches and wilted inflorescences and put it in a cool place, for example, on a closed loggia or veranda), remembering to water it occasionally, BUT! without fanaticism! Optimum temperature the content of snapdragon in such conditions is not lower than + 5⁰C.

In January or February, place the mother plant in a warm, bright room, cut it to a height of 7-10 cm and wait for the emergence of young shoots. They must be cut off or torn off "with the heel"; each cutting must have at least 2 pairs of leaves. The lower leaf blades must be completely removed, and the upper ones must be cut in half.

Dip the cuttings slices in Kornevin powder or simply in a crushed activated carbon tablet. Plant the prepared cuttings in a light sterile substrate consisting of peat and sand; for better water retention, you can add a little chopped sphagnum. Arrange a mini-greenhouse by covering the container with cuttings with a transparent cap or lid.

Rooting takes place within 2-3 weeks with daily spraying and airing, and bottom heating will help speed up the process. After another couple of weeks (when a young growth appears), it will be possible to plant the plants in separate containers. By the end of May, the rooted cuttings will be ready for planting in open ground. The mother garden can also be planted in a flower garden, where it will bloom first.

LIONDARNESS IS A PERENNIAL ?!

In our latitudes, it’s still a SMALL one. You can try to leave it in the open ground for the winter, but success is possible only with a sufficiently reliable shelter and a relatively mild snowy winter. In autumn, the bushes of antirrinum are cut into a stump (up to a height of 8-10 cm), spud with compost or humus, covered with spruce branches or shovel up leaf litter. In early spring the hillock is removed, and the sprouts that appear are planted in the garden or left in the old place. Such plants bloom later than those grown from seeds through seedlings.

On video: beautiful antirrinum

EFFECTIVE CUTTING

Snapdragon is a flower especially attractive in bouquets. Inflorescences can be cut off already at the stage of the dissolution of the first bud, because the rest will calmly bloom in a vase. Antirrinum flowers stay fresh in water for up to 2 weeks.

In the video: the use of snapdragon in a flower garden with conifers

USE IN THE GARDEN

Finding a place in the garden for the antirrinum will not be difficult, it will be appropriate in almost any case. Bright snapdragon flowers will decorate the front flower bed, pastel varieties are better suited for a natural-style garden. Plant dwarf and low-growing plants along the edge of the path or in the foreground of the flower garden, and medium-sized and high anti-rhinums in a separate group or in mixed flower beds (in the center or in the background).
For balconies, patios, terraces, ampelous varieties planted in pots or other containers are suitable.

On video: Snapdragon (antirrinum) terry Twinny F1

Flowers snapdragon (lat.Antirrhinum), or antirrinum,- a genus of herbaceous plants of the Plantain family, covering about 50 species of perennials, including climbing ones, common in the warm zones of the Earth, but mostly in North America. The Russians call this plant "dogs", the British call it "snapdragon" (biting dragon), the French call it "wolf's mouth", and the Ukrainians call it "mouths." From the Greek language, the name "antirrinum" is translated as "nasal", "like a nose."

The ancient Greek myth tells about the first feat of Hercules, when he defeated the Nemean lion, famous for its ferocity and invulnerability. The goddess Flora presented Hercules with a beautiful flower created by her in honor of his victory, which she called "snapdragon." Since then, it has become a tradition in Greece to give snapdragons to heroes. In culture, the snapdragon flower has existed for about five hundred years, and breeding work were started by German scientists in the 19th century, and today about 1000 varieties of snapdragons are grown in the gardens of the planet, and the most interesting thing is that the basis for this variety of forms and hybrids was a single species - large antirrhinum (Antirrhinum majus).

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Planting and caring for snapdragons (at a glance)

• Landing: in warm climates by sowing seeds in the ground in April or before winter. Seeds are sown for seedlings in mid-March, seedlings are planted in open ground closer to mid-May or early April.
• Bloom: from mid-summer to late autumn.
• Lighting: bright sunlight or partial shade.
• The soil: well fertilized, breathable, light loamy soils with a pH of 6.0-7.0, cultivated to a depth of 30-40 cm.
• Watering: only in dry mornings, abundant.
• Top dressing: 2-3 times before flowering with full mineral fertilizer.
• Reproduction: seeds and cuttings.
• Pests: aphids, root nematodes, spider mites, scoops, thrips, slugs.
• Diseases: late blight, fusarium, verticillosis, black leg, septoria, sclerotinosis and peronosporosis.

Read more about growing snapdragons below.

Snapdragon flower - description

The snapdragon plant is a subshrub or herbaceous plants with straight, branched green, thinly grooved stems from 15 cm to one meter in height, forming pyramidal bushes. The upper leaves of the snapdragon are alternate, the lower ones are opposite, they are oblong-oval or lanceolate in shape, color from light green to dark green with red veins.

The flowers are fragrant, rather large, irregular, two-lipped, depending on the variety, simple or double, collected in spike-shaped inflorescences, they are painted in white, yellow, pink, pale fawn, all shades of red, but there are also two-color and even tricolor varieties. The fruit is a two-celled polyspermous capsule, in one gram from 5000 to 8000 seeds. Snapdragon bloom usually begins in June and ends with frost.

Most often, perennial in nature, snapdragons in gardening are grown as annual plant, but with good care and favorable conditions, cold-resistant snapdragons can successfully overwinter in the garden and bloom more beautifully the next year. In garden design, antirrinum is grown as a curb plant, although snapdragons look great both in a flower bed and planted in groups against a green lawn. Snapdragons are often used to decorate balconies and terraces.

Of particular interest among flower growers today are ampelous forms of snapdragons, which can be grown in suspended structures for decorating terraces and galleries.

In the photo: Snapdragon blooming in the garden

Growing snapdragon from seed

Sowing snapdragon

Snapdragon reproduces in generative and vegetative ways. Snapdragon seeds retain the ability to germinate for several years. If you live in a warm climate, you can grow snapdragons from seeds, sowing them directly into the ground, and they will sprout in two and a half or three weeks, without any problems surviving even a slight night cold snap, which is common in spring, but in areas where it is warm comes gradually, it is better to use the seedling method of growing snapdragons. How to grow snapdragons from seeds using seedlings? This process is neither complex nor labor-intensive.

So, sowing snapdragon: early March pour coarse sand into bowls with a diameter of at least 10 cm with drainage holes, and on top of the sand - compost soil mixed with sand, compact it, level it, sprinkle it with water from a sprayer and distribute seeds mixed with sand on its surface, which we then cover from above with a thin layer of the same substrate, moisten it from a fine spray bottle and cover the sowing dish with glass.

We remove condensate from the glass every day, let the crops breathe and, as necessary, moisten the soil from the sprayer. At a temperature of 23 ºC and a moderate humidity of the substrate, sprouts will appear in a couple of weeks. As soon as this happens, move the bowl to a bright, non-sunny place so that they do not stretch out, and as soon as the emergence of seedlings becomes massive (after 3-4 days), remove the glass.

In the photo: Growing snapdragon from seeds

Snapdragon seedlings

The seedlings will grow slowly at first, and your task during this period is to monitor the correct moisture of the soil, watering the soil in the morning so that there is plenty of moisture, but not in excess, as this can lead to the disease of the seedlings with a black leg. "Fallen" sprouts should be removed with tweezers, and the place where they grew should be powdered with crushed coal or sprinkled with a small amount of calcined and cooled river sand... After the appearance of a pair of real - not cotyledonous - leaves, the seedlings dive into a container or box, positioning them so that they grow freely.

You can plant seedlings in personalized pots, or, for example, dive three shoots into larger pots.

Place the opened seedlings in a bright place, protecting them from direct sunlight, and gradually begin to accustom them to the environment and temperature in which they will find themselves after transplanting into open ground: open the window for a while during the day, but make sure that the seedlings do not end up in a draft... After the development of 4-5 leaves, the central shoot of each seedling must be pinched to enhance tillering, but if the lateral shoots are also growing too actively, pinch them too.

In the photo: Red snapdragon

Snapdragon planting

When to plant snapdragons

In late May - early June, grown, matured and hardened seedlings are planted in open ground. And do not be afraid of the last night cold snaps: your young "lion cubs" will calmly survive them. The snapdragon growing area can be sunny or slightly shaded, but always well-drained and protected from strong winds. The soil, however, requires light and nutritious. The best primer for snapdragons- a mixture of sand, compost and peat in approximately equal proportions. The optimum pH of soil for snapdragon is pH 6-8.

In the photo: Snapdragon in a flower bed

How to plant snapdragons

Planting snapdragon flowers is carried out according to the following scheme: tall varieties are planted at a distance of 40-50 cm from each other, medium-sized ones - at a distance of 30 cm, undersized ones - after 20 cm, dwarf ones - after 15 cm.As soon as the snapdragon takes root, it starts very grow quickly and develop into a lush flowering bush. You should know that snapdragon planting is carried out in well-moistened soil.

Snapdragon care

How to grow snapdragons

This plant is unpretentious and only needs what anyone needs garden flower: in watering, loosening the soil, removing weeds and feeding. You will have to water the plants only in dry times, when there is no rain, but not at night. The next day after watering or on the same day in the evening, it is advisable to loosen the soil and weed out the weeds. It is advisable to tie tall varieties of snapdragon to a support. It is better to pick off wilted flowers so that the plant does not expend energy on them.

If you want to get a long flowering from the snapdragon, do not let it set seeds, remove the flower arrow as soon as the last flowers have wilted. You need to cut the peduncle under the lowest flower, then new arrows and new flowers will appear.

As soon as the plant after planting takes root in the soil, it needs to be fed with nitrophobic and organic matter, the second feeding is carried out when the snapdragon begins to form buds, and in this case, a urea solution, potassium sulfate and superphosphate are used at the rate of one tablespoon of each ingredient per 10 liters water.

On the picture: Pink flowers antirrinum

Snapdragon pests and diseases

Sometimes red spots of rust appear on the plant, it can affect the snapdragon septoria, black leg, gray or root rot. Sick specimens must be immediately removed and burned, and the soil in the place where they grew must be treated with an antifungal drug (