My favorite season has to be the spring and one of my favorite plants the snowdrop that heralds its arrival. Snowdrops or Galanthus, to give them their proper name were first introduced into the UK in the 16th century. They are often thought of as a plant native to these shores but are in fact found in most parts of Europe.

Snowdrops are perennial flowering plants and flower between January and April depending on the variety. There are at least 20 different types of snowdrop from the most common to some very rare and expensive plants. All Snowdrops have lovely bright green leaves and snow white flowers. They vary in size from about 9 inches to around 5 inches and the flowers can either be very small and single or large and double. Although they look very delicate Snowdrops, once established are fairly hardy and it always amazes me that these delicate little plants can push their heads through frozen ground! In fact this year, following a particularly hard winter I have more Snowdrops in my garden than for many years.

Although they are labeled as hardy, Snowdrops can be a bit tricky to get established. I would urge you never, ever to consider taking wild Snowdrops as this puts the future of the plant in danger. It is best to buy bulbs that have not been stored for too long and to plant as soon as possible. Snowdrops bulbs don't like getting too warm so take care how they are stored. I plant new bulbs in the autumn and water well. Snowdrops like moist soil with plenty of humus compost. These are a woodland plant and prefer partial shade. They don't do well when planted too near large trees with an established root system. It is best to buy several bulbs rather than a single bulb as Snowdrops like to grow in clusters.

Once established you can transplant Snowdrops fairly simply. Dig around your snowdrops and remove a few clumps. Then divide the clumps carefully and remove the flower heads. Then dig a good sized hole, fill with compost and plant. It Is important to water well as Snowdrops like moist soil.

If you don't have a garden then a walk in any woodland should reveal carpets Snowdrops at their best. If you have a garden then I would encourage you to think about planting Snowdrops. I absolutely love these delicate little plants as they not only look beautiful but remind me that spring really is only just around the corner!