Snowdrops Mean Spring is on the Way
06 January 2009
The first sign of snowdrops emerging from the ground, sometimes as early as January, means that the worst of the winter should be over and Spring is on the way. A brisk walk in the fresh air is the ideal way to spot wild snowdrops in their natural habitat where they create a stunning blanket of white. The most likely places to see snowdrops are in many of the local woodlands scattered throughout the Forest area.
There are nearly 20 wild snowdrop species across Europe, from which over 700 cultivated species have been produced. Our native variety, Galanthus nivalis, usually makes an appearance in late January to early February, creating a magnificent backdrop to a walk in the woods. When it gets a little warmer, snowdrops release a fragrance, which provides a wonderful seasonal smell.
You can also enjoy snowdrops a little closer to home in your own garden as bulbs are easy to come by. However, as snowdrops are becoming increasingly rare in their natural habitat, buy your bulbs from a local garden centre, making sure that they are grown from sustainable sources and not dug up from the wild. Don't dig them up from woodlands or meadows as this is illegal.
They thrive in light shade under trees or shrubs so you can enjoy them in your own garden. These hardy, beautiful flowers can also grow in pots and baskets if re-potted annually.
As with most bulbs, snowdrops tend to grow best in a moist soil with organic compost and, once established, they will multiply into a wonderful sea of white.
