Also known as Glory of the Snow, Chionodoxa is one of the first bulbs to flower in spring. It does best in a well-drained soil in full sun, but will also grow in partial shade under deciduous shrubs or trees, where it will get sun in early spring before the trees put on leaves. A great choice for naturalising under trees and shrubs or in grass.

If planting in heavy soil, dig in some compost and horticultural grit to improve drainage.

Using a trowel or bulb planter, dig holes approximately 5cm deep and 5cm apart.

Place a bulb in each hole with the tip facing upwards, then fill the hole and compact the soil gently.

Water in to settle the soil.

1. We recommend planting Chionodoxa in a large container with good drainage holes to stop the compost becoming waterlogged.

2. Fill the container with a mix of 2 parts bulb compost or multi-purpose compost and 1 part potting grit for good drainage.

3. Plant the bulbs in the compost about 5cm deep and 5cm apart.

4. Water just enough to settle the soil, then place the container in a sheltered place over autumn and winter before moving into a sunny place when the shoots stat to show.

Water as needed during growth periods and feed fortnightly with a high potash fertiliser such as tomato feed.

After the flowers have faded, leave the foliage in place so the leaves can photosynthesise and store food in the bulbs for next year’s flowers.

Don’t mow or cut back plants that are growing in grass until the foliage has died back.

Try to leave the bulbs undisturbed in the ground for maximum growth next year.

Chionodoxa are generally pest- and disease-free. If slugs and snails are a problem, use slug deterrents such as copper tape or pellets to keep them from eating the young shoots.