How to Grow Snapdragons (Dragon Flowers)? A Detailed Guide to Cultivation Techniques
Snapdragon, also known as dragon flower, lion flower, butterfly flower and so on, originated in the Mediterranean region, named for its goldfish-shaped flowers, has high ornamental value, and is also a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. So, what cultivation techniques does snapdragon have? Let's find out together!
I. Sowing Environment
Snapdragon has strong cold tolerance and is not suitable for growing in high-temperature environments. It is best planted in a sunny location or in partial shade. Choose soil that drains normally, has deep, loose, soft layers and strong permeability. Pay attention to soil fertility; it should not be too barren. After selecting the site, do a good job of land preparation, deep plowing and disinfection to prevent residual pathogens from harming snapdragon growth. Then apply sufficient base fertilizer, mainly fully decomposed farmyard manure, to meet the abundant nutrients needed for snapdragon growth.
II. Timely Sowing
Snapdragon is mainly grown from seed. Spring and autumn are the best times for sowing snapdragon, though this timing should vary depending on the growing region. In the Yangtze River basin, sowing is generally done in autumn. Autumn seedlings have stronger growth ability and a higher flowering rate than spring seedlings. Before sowing, to promote germination, the seeds should be soaked and pregerminated in a solution such as gibberellin. When sowing, pay attention to sowing density. After sowing, cover with fine soil and press firmly to ensure full contact between seeds and soil, then water thoroughly to keep the soil moist. Control the temperature well to prevent water from evaporating too quickly and improve the seed germination rate.
III. Seedling Management
After sowing, under normal management, germination occurs in about a week or so. Then promptly remove the plastic film to help the seedlings push through the soil and receive light. During seedling growth, carry out thinning about twice to ensure every seedling can grow robustly. When the seedlings have grown about 5 true leaves, they can be transplanted and set out. When transplanting, try to transplant with soil to prevent lack of water from affecting seedling development. Before transplanting, do a series of preparations for the field where they will be set out: control the planting density well, dig the planting furrows properly, water thoroughly after planting, do a good job of topdressing, and strengthen field management to improve the survival rate after planting.
IV. Field Management
Snapdragon contains rhizobia and has a strong nitrogen-fixing effect, so when topdressing, nitrogen fertilizer may not be needed; mainly phosphorus and potassium fertilizer is sufficient. Proper topdressing with phosphorus and potassium fertilizer can improve flower quality and enhance petal luster, which is very important for snapdragon growth. During cultivation, do a good job of pinching. Usually, pinch once when the seedlings grow to about 14 cm, then pinch again at 20 cm. Pinching can effectively promote side branch growth in snapdragon plants, increase the flowering rate, and enhance commercial ornamental value.
The above are the cultivation techniques for snapdragon. Hope this can help you!