All About Angelonia: The Easy-to-Grow Summer Snapdragon
Introduction
Angelonia, also known as summer snapdragons, is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that adds a splash of color to your garden all summer long. With its delicate flowers and fragrant foliage, Angelonia is a popular choice for borders, bedding plants, and containers.
About Angelonia Flowers
Angelonia plants typically grow to about 18 inches tall and produce a profusion of flowers that resemble small snapdragons. The flowers bloom on upright spikes at the tips of the main stems and come in a variety of colors, including bluish-purple, white, blue, light pink, and bicolor. Angelonia flowers are not only attractive, but they also have a pleasant fragrance that some people find reminiscent of apples.
Care and Growing Conditions
Angelonia prefers to grow in full sun or light shade and well-drained soil. It is important to choose a planting site that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Angelonia plants are relatively drought-tolerant, but they will produce more flowers if the soil is kept moist.
To grow Angelonia from seed, sow the seeds directly outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11. In cooler zones, start the seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost. Angelonia seeds usually take about 20 days to germinate, but they can take up to two months.
Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out to 12 inches apart in cool climates and 18 to 24 inches apart in warm regions. When the young plants are 6 inches tall, pinch out the tips of the main stems to encourage branching and bushiness.
Fertilizing and Watering
Angelonia plants benefit from light monthly fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-5-10. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer flowers.
Water Angelonia plants regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, but do not let the plants wilt.
Pruning and Maintenance
Angelonia plants require minimal pruning. To encourage a bushier plant, pinch out the tips of the main stems when the plants are young. You can also deadhead spent flowers to promote new growth and flowering.
If Angelonia plants begin to sprawl in midsummer, cut them back by about half their height. They will soon regrow and produce a fresh flush of flowers.
Pests and Diseases
Angelonia plants are relatively pest- and disease-resistant. However, they can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Angelonia plants can also be affected by powdery mildew and botrytis blight. To prevent these diseases, water the plants at the base and avoid overhead watering.
Companion Planting
Angelonia plants make good companion plants for other summer-blooming flowers, such as zinnias, cosmos, and sunflowers. They also attract butterflies and other pollinators to the garden.
Conclusion
Angelonia is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that adds color and fragrance to your garden all summer long. With its low-maintenance care requirements, Angelonia is a great choice for gardeners of all levels.
