How to Grow
Galanthus (Snowdrop)

Snowdrops prefer a shady spot and will thrive in most soils under deciduous trees and shrubs or at the front of borders. They’re also ideal for planting in drifts in a lawn to create a woodland effect. Plant your snowdrop bulbs as soon as you get them, to avoid them drying out.

1. Dig a hole with a trowel or a bulb planter approximately 10cm deep.

2. Plant bulbs approximately 10cm apart. Place the bulb in the hole with the tip facing upwards, then fill the hole and compact the soil gently.

3. Water in to settle the soil.

In addition to planting in the garden, snowdrops can be planted in containers, positioned near the house so that you can enjoy their pretty nodding flowers early in the year.

1. Place a layer of stones or gravel at the bottom of a container in order to aid drainage.

2. Fill the container with bulb compost or multi-purpose compost, mixed with potting grit.

3. Plant the bulbs in the compost about 10cm deep and 1-2cm 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.

1. Water regularly in dry periods. It’s important that the soil where snowdrops are planted doesn’t dry out in summer.

2. Allow the leaves to die back naturally before cutting them off.

3. To encourage snowdrops to spread, lift and divide large clumps once they have finished flowering and once the foliage starts to yellow. Replant the smaller clumps.

Snowdrops can be affected by grey mould, especially in mild winter. This causes the leaves and flowers to collapse. Remove any affected plants immediately to stop the problem spreading, and avoid planting snowdrops in areas where the disease has previously occurred.

Rodents such as mice, rats and squirrels enjoy feasting on snowdrop bulbs and will dig them up. Peg down chicken wire over areas where bulbs have been planted to protect them.