When to plant Snowdrops in the UK

Galanthus nivalis

Snowdrop
Snowdrop · Galanthus nivalis

A small hardy bulb for shady spots and woodland-style planting. In the UK it is best planted 'in the green' just after flowering, in moist but free-draining soil, and left to settle in for naturalising over time.

15 cm · Partial Shade · Moderate Water

Add to garden
Plant out February to March.
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UK averages · set your town for dates worked out from your local frost records · how dates are worked out

Growing guide

What to do through the growing season

Dates for your town

Set your town to see planting windows worked out from local frost history, not a generic UK calendar.

  1. 01

    Plant Clumps In The Green

    mid-February to mid-March UK average · set your town for your exact dates

    Lift and replant the clumps while the leaves are still green, around mid-February to mid-March. Set them at roughly three times the bulb height, with the pointy end up, and space them apart in moist, free-draining soil. Water in thoroughly straight after planting.

  2. 02

    Aftercare And Next Season Flowering

    mid-February to mid-April UK average · set your town for your exact dates

    Keep the planting area lightly moist from mid-February if the weather turns dry, and protect new growth from slugs and snails. These clumps have already flowered this year, so the blooms should be expected next season rather than now.

  3. 03

    Deadhead Spent Blooms

    early February to early March UK average · set your town for your exact dates

    If any flowers are still fading around early February to early March, remove the spent heads before they set seed. Leave the foliage in place and let it die back naturally for at least six weeks after flowering so the bulbs recharge properly.

  4. 04

    Let Foliage Die Back

    mid-April to late May UK average · set your town for your exact dates

    Keep the leaves intact from mid-April and do not tie them up or cut them off early. Let them yellow and collapse naturally for at least six weeks after flowering, then lift and divide congested clumps if needed.

Companion plants

Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Snowdrop.

Good companions

Plants to avoid

Why companion planting matters

Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.

Suggested varieties

Popular varieties of Snowdrop to consider

Galanthus nivalis

The common snowdrop, widely grown and naturalises well in UK gardens.

Galanthus nivalis 'Flore Pleno'

A double-flowered form with fuller blooms, good for naturalising in light shade.

Galanthus nivalis 'Atkinsii'

A strong, reliable selection with neat flowers and good garden performance.