ANTIRRHINUM

Sun (Auckland), Volume I, Issue 182, 22 October 1927, Page 26 (Supplement)

ANTIRRHINUM

FOPULARLY CALLED SNAPDRAGON The Antirrhinum, commonly known as Snapdragon, is one of the most useful flowers we have, for making a show in the flower beds and borders, and for cutting. Although a perennial, it is best treated as an annual. There are three types—the medium and dwarf —the last named known as Tom Thumb. The tall varieties are useful for planting among shrubs and for the back of borders; the medium varieties grow about 18 inches high, they lend themselves for bedding and for cut flowers. The dwarf varieties,. which carry a lot of flowers, are useful for edging large beds, where the other varieties are grown, or for massing in front of borders. Seed is easily raised, but for present planting it is advisable to sow in calico frames or boxes in the bushhouse; a nice sandy soil is best to raise them in. If raised in boxes, place glass over the top to check evaporation, covering the glass with paper As soon as the seeds germinate the glass must be removed. When large enough to handle, prick off the seedlings into other boxes, about two inches apart. When about two inches high remove the tip to make them branch out and develop into nice, strong, bushy plants. Plant out in their permanent quarters 12 inches apart each way, carefully lifting them from the seed bed, so that they will suffer very little check. If the ground had been well manured for a previous crop, instead of adding more manure, give a light dressing of lime. Plant firmly and keep well hoed, and when they are coming into flower a little bonedust and superphosphate will be of great benefit.