Harvesting Angelonia Plant: Timing and Techniques

Angelonia plants, also known as summer snapdragons, are popular bedding plants that produce clusters of colorful flowers throughout the summer. These plants are easy to grow and require minimal maintenance, making them a favorite among gardeners. However, to get the most out of your angelonia plants, it’s important to know when and how to harvest them. In this article, we’ll discuss the timing and techniques for harvesting angelonia plants.

When to Harvest Angelonia Plants

The best time to harvest angelonia plants is when they are in full bloom. This usually occurs in mid-summer, around July or August. At this stage, the flowers will be at their peak and will have the best color and fragrance.

It’s important not to wait too long to harvest your angelonia plants, as the flowers will start to wilt and die off after a few weeks. If you wait too long, the flowers may fall off the plant or become discolored, which can reduce their overall quality.

How to Harvest Angelonia Plants

Harvesting angelonia plants is a simple process that can be done with just a pair of scissors or pruning shears. Here are the steps you should follow:

Choose a dry day to harvest your angelonia plants. Wet flowers can rot quickly, so it’s best to wait until the weather is dry.
Inspect your plant and choose which flowers you want to harvest. Look for flowers that are fully open and have good color and fragrance.
Using a pair of scissors or pruning shears, cut the stem of the flower just below the base of the bloom.
Remove any leaves or thorns from the stem of the flower.
Place the cut flowers in a vase filled with water.
Repeat this process until you have harvested all of the flowers you want.

Tips for Harvesting Angelonia Plants

Here are some additional tips that can help you get the most out of your angelonia plants:

Don’t be afraid to prune your angelonia plant during the growing season. This will encourage new growth and more blooms.
To keep your angelonia plant looking neat and tidy, deadhead any spent blooms regularly.
If you plan on drying your angelonia flowers, harvest them when they are just starting to open. This will ensure that they retain their shape and color when dried.
To extend the life of your cut angelonia flowers, change the water in the vase every few days and add flower food.

FAQ

Can I harvest my angelonia plants before they bloom?

Yes, you can harvest angelonia plants before they bloom if you want to use them for their foliage. However, if you want to enjoy their colorful blooms, it’s best to wait until they are in full bloom.

How often should I harvest my angelonia plants?

You can harvest your angelonia plants as often as you like throughout the growing season. However, be sure not to remove too many blooms at once, as this can stress the plant and reduce its overall health.

How long do angelonia flowers last after harvesting?

Angelonia flowers will last for several days after they have been harvested, but their lifespan will depend on how well they are cared for. To extend their life, keep them in a cool location away from direct sunlight and change the water in their vase regularly.

Can I plant harvested angelonia seeds?

Yes, you can plant harvested angelonia seeds if you want to grow new plants for next year’s garden. To do this, simply collect the seeds from mature flower heads and store them in a cool, dry location until planting time.

In conclusion, harvesting your angelonia plants at the right time using proper techniques is essential for getting the most out of these beautiful flowering plants. By following our tips and advice, you can ensure that your angelonia plants produce an abundance of colorful blooms throughout the summer season.