Organically grown snowdrops
The snowdrop, scientifically known as 'Galanthus' is one of the first flowers to bloom in the spring and is often regarded as a symbol of the coming of spring. They grow to no more than 20 centimetres tall and often have elongated, narrow leaves. The small flowers hang down and consist of six white petals, with a green marker on the 3 short petals. The petals form a kind of bell around the central parts of the flower and when the sun rises, the glistening flower stretches out and opens fully to catch the sunlight. This gives a more open and spreading shape to the flower.
In addition to these varieties, there are also double-flowered snowdrops, such as the Galanthus 'Flore Pleno', which will be available as organically grown flower bulbs from the Bloemoloog from 2025.
How and when do I plant snowdrops?
The ideal time to plant snowdrops in the ground is from summer to November. The planting depth is 2 to 3 times the bulb height and the planting distance is 2 to 3 times the bulb width. Plant the flower bulbs with the point upwards, then cover them with soil and press gently to keep the bulb firmly in place. After planting, give a good watering so that the soil is moist for rooting for the early spring flowering.
Where do I plant snowdrops?
The best location for snowdrops is in semi-shade to shade, although they also have some tolerance for sunlight. Plant snowdrops in groups in the garden under deciduous trees or shrubs or in the grass around trees. Preferably in a place where there is little foot traffic and in the summer where the leaves of the trees give shade.
Make sure the soil is well-drained, preferably slightly moist but not waterlogged. They grow well in loamy soil, as this type of soil retains water well, but also provides adequate drainage. They can also grow in sandy soil, provided the soil is kept moist. Sandy soil provides good drainage, which is important to prevent the bulbs from rotting.
Snowdrops in clay soil
Although snowdrops have some tolerance for clay soil, clay that is too heavy can impair drainage. Improving the soil structure by adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can help improve drainage and promote healthy snowdrop growth.
Caring for snowdrops
Snowdrops naturalize and require no special care. A layer of mulch, such as leaves or compost, can be helpful to keep the soil moist and reduce weed growth. Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base of the plants, but avoid covering the bulbs directly.
Propagating snowdrops
Snowdrops usually reproduce naturally by forming new bulbs and spreading seeds. However, if you want to grow new plants, you can dig up the bulbs after flowering and carefully divide them. Plant the new bulbs directly back into the ground in the desired location.
Origin of the snowdrop
The common snowdrop is a stinzenplant, but is native to large parts of Europe, including the western, central and southern parts of the continent. The name 'Galanthus' is derived from the Greek words 'gala' meaning 'milk' and 'anthos' meaning 'flower', referring to the white colour of the flowers.
Buy organic snowdrops
The Galanthus 'Nivalis', or the common snowdrops, that are available in the assortment of the Bloemoloog, are organically grown. From 2025 we will also grow the Galanthus 'Flore Pleno' organically.
When to buy snowdrops?
From June to January, or while supplies last, snowdrops can be ordered from Bloemoloog.nl. The snowdrop bulbs are dug up fresh every week in the summer. So you can be sure that you will receive 100% quality at home!
Buy organic snowdrops at the market
This product is not available on the market due to poor storage in outdoor temperature!