When to Plant Snowdrops

Why snowdrops deserve a place in your garden

Snowdrops are among the first flowers to bloom each year, often appearing in late winter when little else is stirring. Their delicate white nodding heads are a welcome sign that spring is on the way. They work beautifully in borders, woodland edges, or naturalised in grass. Once established, snowdrops return reliably every year and slowly multiply, offering timeless charm with minimal effort.

When should you plant snowdrops

The best time to plant snowdrops is ‘in the green’—just after flowering, while the leaves are still active. This is usually from February to April. Planting snowdrop bulbs dry in autumn (September to November) is an option, but it's less reliable and often results in fewer successes. In-the-green planting helps the bulbs establish roots while they still have energy in their foliage, leading to stronger growth the following year.

Understanding ‘in the green’ planting

‘In the green’ means planting snowdrops when they still have green leaves attached, shortly after blooming. They are lifted from the ground after flowering and can be replanted immediately. This method reduces the risk of bulbs drying out and dramatically improves the chance of successful establishment. It’s how snowdrops are traditionally moved in established gardens and woodlands.

Where snowdrops grow best

Snowdrops prefer partial shade and moist but well-drained soil. They do well under deciduous trees, where they get winter sun before the canopy fills in. They also suit the front of borders or the base of hedges. Avoid heavy clay unless improved with compost or leaf mould, as sitting in waterlogged soil can cause bulbs to rot. Snowdrops are woodland plants by nature, so mimic those conditions when choosing a spot.

How to plant snowdrops

If planting in the green, dig a hole deep enough to take the roots and part of the stem—about 5–7cm deep. Plant in small groups for a natural look, spacing clumps around 10cm apart. Firm the soil around them and water well. For dry bulbs, plant them 5–8cm deep in autumn and water after planting. Mark the area, as they’re easy to forget over winter.

Establishing a naturalised display

To naturalise snowdrops in grass or under trees, scatter them by hand to create a natural look, then plant them where they fall. They’ll spread gradually over the years. Allow the leaves to die back naturally—cutting them too early weakens the bulbs. Over time, clumps will grow denser and can be divided and spread out to increase coverage.

How to care for snowdrops after planting

Snowdrops are low-maintenance once settled. Water them during dry spells in their first year. After flowering, let the foliage die down naturally to feed the bulb for next year’s blooms. Avoid cutting back or mowing over them until the leaves turn yellow. They rarely need feeding but will appreciate a light mulch of leaf mould or compost each year to mimic natural woodland conditions.

Dividing and spreading snowdrops

Once established, snowdrop clumps can be lifted and divided every few years just after flowering. Gently dig up a clump, tease apart smaller groups, and replant them in new areas straight away. This helps keep displays looking full and encourages healthy growth. Always replant immediately—snowdrops dislike being out of the soil for long.

Common issues with planting snowdrops

Dry bulbs can fail to establish if planted too late or in poor conditions. They’re prone to drying out quickly, so always store them cool and dry if not planting immediately. Waterlogged or compacted soil is a major issue—ensure good drainage. Mice and squirrels occasionally disturb bulbs, but once snowdrops are growing, they’re largely trouble-free.

Snowdrop bulb dormancy is short

Snowdrop bulbs don’t store well once lifted. Unlike daffodils or tulips, they dry out and lose viability fast. That’s why planting them in the green is so strongly recommended—it skips the dormant phase and gets them back into the ground while they’re still actively growing. If you do buy dry bulbs in autumn, try to get them as fresh as possible and plant them immediately.

Autumn planting success depends on conditions

When planting dry snowdrop bulbs in autumn, soil preparation is key. Improve drainage with grit or compost, especially if you’re dealing with heavier soils. Avoid shallow planting—deeper bulbs are more stable and better protected from frost, pests and drying out. Planting in clusters, rather than single bulbs, also helps improve their visibility and impact once they flower.

Not all snowdrops are equal

There are dozens of snowdrop species and cultivars, not just the common Galanthus nivalis. Some, like Galanthus elwesii, flower earlier and are more tolerant of warmer conditions. Others are prized by collectors for their subtle differences in shape or markings. If you’re creating a showy or specialist display, it’s worth exploring a few varieties with staggered bloom times.

Ideal companions in planting schemes

Snowdrops pair well with other low-growing spring plants like hellebores, cyclamen, winter aconites and early crocuses. These plants enjoy similar conditions—partial shade and moisture-retentive soil—and create a beautiful winter-to-spring transition. Planting them together helps create longer-lasting seasonal interest in borders or woodland areas.

Wildlife-friendly and low-maintenance

Snowdrops are not only tough and low-fuss, but they’re also bee-friendly, offering one of the first pollen sources of the year. This makes them valuable in wildlife gardens. They’re also highly resistant to pests and diseases, needing minimal intervention once established.