SOWING INSTRUCTIONS
Depth:
Chill seed 2 days in refrigerator before sowing. Sow thinly on surface and lightly press in, as they require light to germinate.
Seed To Bloom:
14-16 weeks
Starting Indoors:
Recommended. Start in containers 8-10 weeks before last spring frost. Keep at about 60-70°F. A mix specifically for seed germination with added vermiculite is the preferred growing medium to prevent fungal problems. Water only from below by setting containers in a tray.
Starting Outdoors:
Not recommended.
WHEN TO SET OUTSIDE
After last spring frost, or in autumn in zones 8+
PLACEMENT & CULTIVATION
Snapdragon Madame Butterfly™ 'Red' is a stunning plant that adds a bold vertical statement to summer gardens. Its glossy dark green foliage serves as a striking backdrop to the doubled blooms. This variety is a favorite cut flower that blooms all summer in areas where nights cool down, and in late spring and fall in hotter regions. To promote bushy growth, pinch the plant when setting it out and stake it early with twiggy brush or crossed bamboo stakes to support the tall flower-filled stems in windier locations. After the first flush of bloom, deadhead, removing the spikes with developing seeds down to vegetative branching, or shear the plants to 8". Fertilize the trimmed plants for continued flowering until late fall.
Watering Details:
About 1" per week, moderate tolerance to dry soils once established.
Soil pH:
Prefers neutral but will tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline
Fertilizer:
Fertilize with an organic flower fertilizer monthly.
Diseases & Pests:
Aphids may be an issue—hose down plants with a heavy stream of water regularly in the morning until the pest is gone. Place in an area with good circulation to prevent fungal problems. If such issues do arise, plants can be sprayed with an organic fungicide.
When to Cut for Bouquets:
Harvest when 1/3 of the florets are open.
