How to Grow Rocket Snapdragons

Rocket snapdragons ( Antirrhinum majus "Rocket") grow to heights of up to 3 feet, making them taller than other snapdragon varieties. They are tender perennials, but are usually treated as annuals because they tend to be short-lived. Rocket snapdragons produce the same colorful blooms as their more compact counterparts. Available colors include varying shades of yellow, pink, red, purple and orange. They thrive in fast-draining, nutrient-rich soil and full sun. They are attractive in planters, borders or beds and make excellent cut flowers.

Spade
Organic compost
Mulch
Balanced water-soluble fertilizer
Pruning shears

Instructions

- 1
  Dig a hole the same depth as the rocket snapdragon's root ball and double or triple its width. Break up large soil clumps with a spade.
- 2
  Replace half of the loose soil with organic compost to improve drainage.
- 3
  Place the root ball into the hole and cover with the soil and compost mixture. Pat down to firm and water until the soil feels evenly moist to the bottom of the planting hole.
- 4
  Spread 3 inches of mulch under the rocket snapdragons.
- 5
  Pinch the tips of the stems right after planting to encourage lush growth.
- 6
  Water as needed to keep the top 1/2-inch of soil moist.
- 7
  Feed monthly with balanced water-soluble fertilizer, applied at the rate recommended on the package.
- 8
  Clip off flowers when they fade to encourage an extended bloom cycle.
- 9
  Stimulate new growth, if flowering stops during summer, by cutting the plants back to a height of 12 to 18 inches.

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