Snowdrop Growing Guide

Galanthus

Snowdrop

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Moist, fertile garden soil.

Position

Full sun to partial shade in late winter, partial shade in summer.

Frost tolerant

Excellent. Snowdrops are hardy to -32C (-25F).

Feeding

Topdress with a balanced organic fertiliser in early spring, when new growth appears.

Companions

Snowdrops naturalise well in light shade, and can be grown in lawns that are not mowed until late spring. Snowdrops combine well with crocuses, scillas, and early-blooming daffodils.

Spacing

Single Plants: 10cm (3") each way (minimum)
Rows: 10cm (3") with 10cm (3") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Set out dormant bulbs from late summer to early winter, planting them 3in (8cm) deep. Allow 10cm (4in) between bulbs. Over time they will fill in with seedlings and offsets.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalised calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Like crocuses, snowdrops are considered harbingers of spring, often blooming before the last snow. Expect snowdrops to spread when planted in a hospitable spot.

Harvesting

Seeds can be gathered and re-sown in early summer. Established clumps can be dug and moved in the autumn, but are best left undisturbed.

Troubleshooting

Snowdrops need a period of winter chilling, and will not persist long in warmer areas.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Snowdrop