HOW TO GROW ANTIRRHINUMS FROM SEED

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Although it is possible to root cuttings from Antirrhinums species they are best grown from seeds grown in pots or seed trays in February or March. However there is an issue that is associated with growing antirrhinums from seed and that is that the seedlings can be prone to damping off. This is usually caused by the higher levels of ammonia found in sterilized, soil-based composts. To avoid this, use a soilless seed compost or mix your own seed compost from a 50:50 volume of moss peat and horticultural grade grit sand. Do not add any nutrient to the seed compost.

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Sow the seeds thinly onto the surface of the compost and then give a very light covering of fine sand, grit or vermiculite. This is so that light can reach the seeds which is need for germination.

Gently water in using a soft rose and place in a heated propagator at a temperature of 16-18 degrees Celsius. Alternatively, place the pots or tray inside a clear polythene bag and place in a warm, bright room on the windowsill. Avoid a window that receives direct sunlight as this can scorch seedlings and quickly dry out the compost. You can expect the first seedlings to emerge in 10-20 days.

As soon as the seedlings start to emerge they can be removed from the propagator or polythene bag but kept on the windowsill. Water as necessary but do not allow the compost to become waterlogged.

Antirrhinum seedlings

Once the seedlings are large enough to handle they can be pricked out and potted on individually into 3 inch pots. Keep in the cooler conditions of an unheated greenhouse or cold frame to harden off for a few weeks before being planted out into their final position from March to June. Unless you are growing single stemmed plants for cutting, pinch out the shoots once the plants reach approximately 3-4 inches tall.

Antirrhinums will grow in any ordinary, well-drained soil that has been previously enriched with well-rotted farm manure or garden compost. They will prefer a sunny, sheltered position.

For an earlier flowering, you can sow antirrhinum seed in July or August for either potting on in September or planting out in a sheltered, well-drained soil.

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