Galanthus (snowdrop)

 

Because of their extreme earliness snowdrops are great for lighting up bleak spots in the late winter garden. They prefer moist but well-drained soil and are best planted in drifts beneath deciduous trees where they receive protection from summer sunshine. It is the best of all bulbs for tucking away in little corners, under the edge of evergreens, against a hedge or in the rockery. Loosen the soil to a depth of at least 15cm for they are deep rooting and dislike shallow planting. They need little fertilization but will benefit from a mixture of leaf-mould or decayed manure in autumn every other year. Plant 10cm deep, 8cm apart.