The Seed Coat of a Snapdragon

Seed Description

• Snapdragon seeds are very small with a relatively soft seed coat. They do not require soaking, or stratification, prior to planting to soften the seed coat. Many snapdragon seeds require light to germinate. Read the seed packet carefully.

Planting

• Plant snapdragon seeds indoors at least four to six weeks before the last expected frost. Plant them in light, well-draining potting mix. Cover seeds that don't require light with a thin dusting of vermiculite or potting soil. Otherwise lay the seeds on top of the soil so light reaches them. Keep the soil evenly moist to break down the seed coat, encouraging germination. Snapdragon seeds germinate best when soil temperatures are between 64 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Higher temperatures may slow or halt germination.

Planting

• Once the seed coats soften and split, the plant begins to grow, usually within four to eight days. Reduce moisture slightly and plant snapdragons outdoors when they reach 4 inches high. Snapdragons tolerate some frost, but dwindle in summer heat. Pinch them back to promote bushy growth and more blooms.

Growth

• Snapdragons are tender perennials, usually treated as annuals. The plants produce and drop small seeds, though, that may produce new plants each year with no help from you. For best effect, mingle snapdragons in a flower bed with other perennials and flowers. Their foliage is somewhat spindly and untidy and best kept hidden among other plants.