How to Grow Snowdrops
Often the first to bloom in early spring the snowdrop, or Galanthas, is hardy, pushing right through heavy snow when it's time to arrive. But they can also be temperamental about their growing location and it takes an average of four years to grow a snowdrop from flowering size. One may wonder why anyone bothers to grow snowdrops, but there seems to be something special about this flowering plant. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Choose a planting area in zones 3 through 9 with moist soil and plenty of humus. Avoid hot, dry areas of full sunshine. Snowdrops prefer part shade and therefore grow well among shrubs or small trees.
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Place small groups of snowdrop plants about 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart rather than planting single bulbs. They do not like being confined in pots.
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Move the plants to a new location if it appears nearby plants are smothering the snowdrops with their roots or leaves.
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Plant snowdrops either in autumn as dormant bulbs if freshly lifted, or as growing bulbs, if moved in the spring right after they flower. Either way, you want soil that never completely dries out during the summer months. Fertilize the plants just before new growth begins.
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Keep established clumps divided after flowering to encourage growth and avoid disease. Snowdrops that thrive year after year are the ones that have been dug up and divided right after they've bloomed.
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Consider using snowdrops in rock gardens or as an edging plant around a bed of tall flowers, such as sunflowers. Just don't crowd things too much.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure to bring a few snowdrop flowers inside your home so you can enjoy their light honey fragrance.
