How to Grow Snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis)

Learn how to grow snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis), the hardy perennial that signals the arrival of spring. This complete guide covers everything from planting snowdrops in moist, well-drained soil to selecting the best spots for these early bloomers. Discover tips on growing, propagating, and maintaining snowdrops, including step-by-step instructions for planting bulbs and dividing mature clumps. With advice on troubleshooting common issues like animal interference and guidance on buying snowdrop bulbs, you’ll have all the tools to cultivate these stunning winter flowers in your garden. Perfect for beginners and seasoned gardeners alike!

How to Grow Snowdrops

Snowdrops thrive in moist, well-drained soil with partial shade. They can be planted as dry bulbs in October and November or in the green (while still growing) from February to March. Deadheading spent flowers is optional but can help direct the plant’s energy back to the bulb, promoting a better display the following year. Every few years, it’s also helpful to dig up and divide congested clumps.

Best Places to Plant Snowdrops

Snowdrops prefer moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil with dappled or partial shade. Ideal spots include planting them under deciduous shrubs like Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’, along the front of borders, or at the base of deciduous hedges. These versatile plants also do well when planted in grass, as well as in spring borders and rock gardens.

Though snowdrops can be grown in pots, they do not perform well in soil that dries out in the summer. To keep them healthy, repot annually in fresh soil.

Planting Snowdrops: Step-by-Step

While you can plant dry snowdrop bulbs in autumn, they can be tricky to establish. A more reliable method is planting snowdrops in the green. After they bloom, lift them before the foliage turns yellow, and replant them immediately. You can also buy snowdrops in the green from local garden centers or online.

Snowdrops thrive in well-drained soil with light shade, similar to their native woodland habitat. If planting in heavy soil, mix in sharp sand or grit to improve drainage. When planting, place the bulbs at the same depth they were previously growing—use the soil marks as a guide. Water thoroughly and let the foliage die back naturally. Continue watering if conditions are dry.

Once established, snowdrops need little maintenance. Allow the foliage to die back naturally, which helps return nutrients to the bulbs. Every few years, divide mature clumps to encourage healthy growth.

Propagating Snowdrops

Snowdrops can be propagated by lifting, dividing, and replanting. After flowering, in March or April, carefully lift the bulbs and roots using a hand fork, keeping the foliage intact. Replant them immediately in the garden and water well. Although the foliage may appear wilted, it should recover by the following winter.

Snowdrop Troubleshooting

Squirrels and mice often dig up newly planted snowdrop bulbs. To protect them, place a wooden frame with chicken wire over the planting area. This will allow the bulbs to establish while keeping animals at bay. Once you notice leaf growth, you can remove the frame.

Tips for Buying Snowdrops

Before purchasing snowdrops, make sure you have the right growing conditions. Snowdrops prefer moist, well-drained soil, and they can struggle in soil that dries out during the summer. Specialty snowdrops can be quite expensive, so consider adding one or two bulbs each year to gradually build your collection.

Snowdrops are available from garden centers and online retailers, with rarer varieties often offered by specialist growers.