First Flowers of Spring – The Snowdrops

If you live in a 4 season climate like I do, you will notice that one of the first signs of spring is the flower called a Snowdrop. These little white flowers bloom in late winter/early spring. Below is a photo of snowdrops.

Snowdrops are actually called Galanthus but in popular culture they are known as snowdrops because they bloom even when there is snow outside. They are not sensitive to the cold weather so it is not unusual to see them when there is snow on the ground. The bulbs of these flowers stay in the ground all year and bloom each year so there is no need to replant them or move them annually.

Snowdrops are found in Europe, in parts of the Middle East and North America. They are very popular and you will most likely seem them all over the place as they have the tendency to grow like weeds without any care.

I am fond of all flowers but these are bit more special because they signal that winter is almost over. I first noticed them in my garden almost 2 weeks ago, so the middle of February. They are now fully bloomed and look beautiful. The best part is that there is no care or “maintenance” required, they do all the work and they seem to multiply a little bit each year. I am hoping to have a snowdrop carpet one day, I imagine that would look stunning!

If you are planning on planting snowdrops you can buy them at the store, they are sold as small bulbs but you need to plant them rather quickly. It is suggested that you plant them in a shadier spot or under trees because they do not enjoy direct sunlight or too much heat in the summer when they are dormant.

Remember if you choose to cut them and put them in a vase or on display they will wither quickly. It is suggested you leave them in the garden and enjoy observing them there.