The flower of hope

January - March is the season for Snowdrops in the UK. These beautiful flowers are often one of the first flowers to be found in woodlands, orchards, gardens and pastures after the cold of winter. Galanthus Nivalis, their scientific name meaning “milk-white flowers”, are believed to be native to Europe and were first recorded growing wild in the UK in the 18th century.

These hardy plants will grow and multiply with little maintenance, making them easy to add into a flower bed and enjoy year after year. They can be planted in moist but well-drained soil, in front of herbaceous plants that can provide cover when the snowdrops are dormant. They also do well at the foot of a deciduous hedge.

Tip - deadhead spent blooms to concentrate energy back into the plant for a better display the following year. You can also dig-up and divide congested clumps every couple of years.