Through the seasons of the year – The Snowdrop

One of my favourite flowers is the snowdrop, associated with the month of January.  It used to be that snowdrops grew in early January – March, but it’s not uncommon to spot them pre Christmas. I can’t begin to tell you how excited I get, as I look forward to seeing this beauty.

My birthday is in February and I often request a visit to see the snowdrops, alongside a trip to a lovely English tearoom of course!

In the language of flowers the snowdrop stands for –

* A friend in adversity

* Hope

Snowdrops are also a good flower for condolence and thank you cards.

Want to know more about this fantastic flower?

• Snowdrops are known as Galanthus
• There are more than 100 species – you have to get up close and personal with these lovely flowers to spot the difference.
• Snowdrops grow best in dappled sunlight/shade under trees or shrubs, particularly deciduous.
• They can be grown in containers, so if you live in a flat with a little balcony or small patio there is no need to miss out on this beauty.
• They prefer a well drained soil.
• Even though they flower at the beginning of the year, it’s important to care for them through the warmer months, making sure they don’t dry out.
• You can buy snowdrops as bulbs or ‘in the green.’ I have tried both and have to say we have been more successful planting snowdrops in the green. The term ‘in the green’ is snowdrops just after flowering.
• Over time snowdrops will spread naturally.

Gardens to visit to see the splendour of the snowdrop

Check the following websites for special snowdrop days.

• Aberglasney in Llangathen Wales
• Brandy Mount House in Hampshire – they hold the national collection.
• Cambro Estate in Fife Scotland – largest snowdrop collection in Scotland
• Colesbourne Park in Cheltenham
• East Lambrook Gardens in Somerset
• Finlaystone Country Estate – in Renfrewshire Scotland
• Heale House in Wiltshire – (they have a nice café too)
• Hodstock Priory Garden in Nottinghamshire
• RHS Gardens –  Wisley holds the national collection,
• Stourton Gardens in Wilshire
• The National Trust – Kingston Lacey in Dorset
• Welford Park in Berkshire
• Check out old church grounds – they are a perfect habitat for them

Fancy adding the glorious snowdrop to your garden or patio?

Here are some nurseries –

• Ashwood Nurseries in South Staffordshire. On the 7^th of February they have a special snowdrop day!

• Orchard Nurseries

• J Parker

• Maynell Cottage Plants

Flower cards and gifts

Nita Joy Craft Design – have snowdrop cards and gifts available.

The snowdrop greeting cards can be with or without words, and can also have your special message included at no extra cost.

We also have a tote bag and small cotton gift bag with snowdrops.

Our calendar includes the lovely snowdrop for the month of January,

Our plum leaves notebook has a photo of snowdrops added to the cover.

Anita