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When you see a drift of snowdrops it's easy to understand their appeal. Most of them appear very early in the year while other bulbs lie dormant, and they never fail to lift the spirits and remind us that spring is on its way.
There are several hundred cultivars of snowdrop, often only distinguishable by the markings on the inner three petals of each flowerhead. There are both single and double varieties; most are green although some, e.g. Galanthus nivalis 'Sandersii' are yellow.
Planting combinations
Try growing snowdrops under deciduous shrubs, e.g. Cornus alba 'Sibirica Variegata', or along the front of borders where herbaceous plants can provide ground cover when the snowdrops are dormant.
Snowdrops are also ideal for naturalising in grass and moss under a tree. They do well in pots, but they will need repotting annually.
Planting snowdrops
Plant snowdrops in-the-green in spring after they have finished flowering, but before the leaves have died down. This helps them absorb moisture quickly after they have been planted, as dry, rootless snowdrop bulbs do not re-establish well. Specialist nurseries sell snowdrops in-the-green and also often wrap the bulbs to preserve moisture.
Snowdrops enjoy a well-drained spot in light shade, similar to their natural woodland habitat. If you are planting your bulbs in a heavy soil, add a little sharp sand or grit to the planting hole to improve drainage.
Learn how to divide and plant snowdrop bulbs.
Read about this year's snowdrop and daffodil sightings, and share your stories.
