Snowdrops are a wintery sight adored by gardeners across the country during the colder months, but how do you plant them? From where, when and how deep, find out all you need to know in our guide.

What is a snowdrop?

Snowdrops, otherwise known as Galanthus, are a delicate flowering plant commonly associated with the colder months. Snowdrops often appear en masse, creating a white blanket effect which is admired by many across cherished gardens and countryside verges. A snowdrop takes form in a pure white drooping bell-shaped flower with elegant petals and slim green leaves. 

Planting snowdrop bulbs

Once you’ve received your snowdrop bulbs, it’s best to plant them as soon as possible. Snowdrops generally succeed in dappled shade, but they also grow well out in the open. Growing snowdrops usually yields best results in moist, well drained soil so consider adding garden compost, leaf mould or rotted manure to the ground before planting the bulbs. 

When planting your snowdrop bulbs, we recommend planting them at 2-3 times their depth. If too deep, the bulb may rot or the shoots will start to emerge too late. On the other hand, if you plant the bulbs too shallow, the sprouts may emerge unevenly and have spindly growth. 

After planting, when shoots begin to emerge, thoroughly and frequently water them to encourage growth. We recommend applying a slow release fertiliser upon planting or a liquid fertiliser once the growing season begins. 

Growing tips and advice

• Be sure to plant at the recommended distance and depth
• Once shoots emerge, water thoroughly and frequently to encourage growth
• Fertiliser isn’t essential, but it will help the plants look their best
• Apply a slow release fertiliser when planting, or a liquid fertiliser when the plant begins to grow