How to Grow Snapdragons Using Seeds

Snapdragons bloom throughout spring, summer and fall. The plants prefer cooler weather to bloom best, so they may decline during the heat of summer and return to bloom as the weather begins to cool down in early fall. Starting the snapdragons from seed provides an inexpensive supply of plants. By starting the seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the last spring frost, you can ensure the flowers begin blooming at the earliest possible time to ensure a long-lasting display in the garden.

Tray
Potting soil
Clear plastic
Soluble fertilizer

Instructions

- 1
  Fill a seedling tray with potting soil. Water the soil until it is moist throughout.
- 2
  Sow the snapdragon seeds on the soil surface, spacing them 1 inch apart in rows that are set 1 inch to 2 inches apart. Press on the seeds lightly so they are in contact with the soil, but don't cover them as they require light for germination.
- 3
  Cover the tray with a sheet of clear plastic. The plastic allows light in while retaining the moisture in the potting soil.
- 4
  Set the tray in a warm area that receives bright but indirect sunlight. Seeds germinate within 10 to 14 days.
- 5
  Remove the plastic once the sprouts emerge. Move the tray to an area that receives six to eight hours of direct sunlight.
- 6
  Water the seedlings when the soil surface dries. Water with a half-strength soluble fertilizer solution every two weeks, beginning two weeks after germination. Refer to the fertilizer label for application instructions.
- 7
  Transplant the snapdragons outside two weeks before the last expected frost in your area, because the seedlings tolerate mild frost without damage. Plant the seedlings in the bed at the same depth they were growing at in their pots. Space them 6 inches to 8 inches apart in all directions.

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