Snapdragons Plant Guidance by Larson’s
Storytime Series by LARSON’s
Did you Know?
Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) are one of the most versatile additions to a Connecticut garden in May. Because they are “cool-season” annuals, they thrive in the fluctuating temperatures of a New England spring, often laughing off the late-season frosts that would kill a tomato or zinnia.
Quick Care Stats
• Light: Full sun (6+ hours) for the strongest stems.
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist but never soggy.
• Soil: Rich, well-draining soil with a neutral pH (6.2–7.0).
• Hardiness: Can survive temperatures down to 20°F once established.
May Planting Guide for CT
Timing & Placement
In Connecticut, you can safely put snapdragons in the ground in early to mid-May. While many people wait until after Mother’s Day to plant their gardens, snapdragons actually prefer the cooler soil of early May to establish a deep root system before the summer heat arrives.
The “Pinch” Technique
When your snapdragons are about 4–6 inches tall, use garden snips to cut off the very top center stem (just above a set of leaves). This feels counterintuitive, but it signals the plant to stop growing one single “spike” and start branching out. This results in a much bushier plant with significantly more flower spikes.
Selection by Height
• Dwarf (6–10″): Best for the front of borders or window boxes. Look for the Snapshot or Floral Showers series.
• Intermediate (12–24″): Great for general landscaping and “filler” in larger pots. The Sonnet and Liberty series are popular CT choices.
• Tall (24–36″+): Essential for cutting gardens. These often require staking or “netting” to prevent them from flopping during a heavy May rainstorm. Look for the Rocket or Potomac series.
Maintenance
• Deadheading: This is the secret to a long season. As soon as a flower spike begins to fade and form seed pods at the bottom, cut the entire spike off. This forces the plant to put energy into new blooms rather than seed production.
• Summer Dormancy: In late July/August, snapdragons often stop blooming due to the heat. Don’t pull them out! Cut them back by about a third, keep them watered, and they will usually provide a second, even more spectacular flush of color in September and October.
A Note on “Snap” vs. “Open-Faced”
While most people love the traditional “dragon jaw” that kids like to squeeze, look for “Butterfly” or “Azalea-flowered” varieties (like Chantilly or Madame Butterfly). These have open, ruffled faces that stay open on their own—they are stunning in bouquets and tend to have a slightly longer vase life.
Plant Guidance by Larson’s Garden Center and Landscaping
Note: Always refer to your local weather to know if temps change or excessive rain.
Ma 2026
