February Flower of the Month
Snowdrops
"Galanthus"

 

Type of plant-Hardy bulb

Flowering season – Late winter/ early spring

Color -  white and green

Height – 4-8 inches

USDA Hardiness Zones – 3-8 depending on species

Light – Full sun to partial shade. Heat will shorten their bloom period and cause them to wilt.

Soil – Snowdrops like a neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH and a rich but well draining soil.

Snowdrops are often the first flowers to bloom and a welcome sight. Their tiny drooping flowers and grass-like foliage give the plant the appearance of delicacy but snowdrops are hardy plants, often poking up while snow is still on the ground. They take a year to become  established and will flower lightly the first spring. Once established, they can form large colonies.

Since they bloom so early they are mostly pest free although slugs and snails may eat their leaves later in the spring. They are resistant to deer, rabbits and groundhogs. Snow drops can be prone to fungal disease, especially gray mold (botrytis). Good air circulation and well draining soil will usually prevent problems.

The best time to plant snowdrops is in the fall.  Bulbs don’t store well so they should be planted soon after purchasing. If a friend can dig some for you in the spring before the leaves have started to decline, they should be fine , too, just plant them right away.

For more information visit http://easytogrowbulbs.com  http://gardeningabout.com  http://gardeningknowhow.com