How to Grow Snapdragon in New Zealand
A cool-season annual with tall spikes of snap-jawed flowers in every colour, and one of the best picks for autumn and winter colour up north. Deadhead spent spikes to push side shoots, and stake the tall types. Bees love them.
When to plant snapdragon in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Auckland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Waikato & BoP | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Wellington | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Nelson & Marlborough | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Canterbury | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Otago & Southland | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
| Central Otago | January, February, March, April, August, September, October |
Best snapdragon varieties for NZ
- Madame Butterfly Mix — Tall azalea-flowered spikes in a rich colour range. A florist favourite for cutting. (Mr Fothergill's NZ, Yates NZ)
- Tetra Giants Mix — Large-flowered, sturdy spikes on tall plants. Reliable for the back of a bed. (Egmont Seeds)
How to grow snapdragon
- Space plants about 25cm apart.
- Sow seed around 0.3cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 70 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 10 days.
Companion planting
Grow snapdragon near: Marigold, Alyssum, Calendula.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Aphids, Rust mite. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Snapdragon plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant snapdragon in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, February, March, April, August, September, October. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy snapdragon seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Mr Fothergill's NZ, Yates NZ, Egmont Seeds.