Photo: Johan N, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Annual
Snapdragon: when and how to prune
Antirrhinum majus
Snapdragon is best pruned in April and August.
| Pruning months | April and August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–October |
| Good for bees, butterflies and birds | Yes, for bees |
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Snapdragon: when to prune it?
Pinch out the young plants in April. In August, after the first flush of flowers, cut the plant back for a second flush.
Snapdragon: how to prune it?
- In April, pinch or cut out the tip of young plants above the third or fourth pair of leaves: this gives more flowering stems.
- All summer, cut off spent spikes just above a couple of healthy side shoots.
- If the plant looks untidy in August, cut all flowering stems back by about half; it will flower again after a few weeks.
- To collect seed, leave a few spikes in September until the capsules turn brown.
How much to cut, and how often?
- There are 2 pruning periods a year: April and August. You don’t have to prune in every one.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Snapdragon flowers in June–October, when it attracts bees.
- If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Snapdragon · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.