Snowdrops Galanthus

Snowdrops, Galanthus grow very well in Irish gardens. Ireland is famous for the large numbers of named varieties which have been developed or appeared in gardens over a long period of time. Early flowering is usually the most commonly known advantage of growing snowdrops. The variety Galanthus Navalls, are probably the most common and widely known. The flowers are attractive, bell-shaped and white which open to expose green petals.

They are also well-known for producing a double flowered form, which produces multiple petals creating attractive, frilly centres to each hanging flower.

Snowdrops usually start into flower at the end of January and beginning of February. There are dozens of different named varieties and these have become incredibly collectible, with gardens like Altamont producing fantastic displays for people to view and see. These gardens are near Tullow, near Co. Carlow, and within the gardens is Altamont Plant Sales, which is run by Robert Miller, who helps spearhead their annual Snowdrop festival.

Also, throughout the gardens, which are on view to the public, individual tours of their snowdrop collection are run in conjunction with the OPW. Snowdrops are usually available in flower and you will pick them up in your local garden centre. A snowdrop which has been lifted while growing and producing flowers is simply called ‘in the green’. They are happy in most soils and usually will grow in sun or light shade but it is best to make sure that soil is well-drained.