Name Galanthus translated as “milk flower”, representatives of this genus are called “snowdrops” for their very early flowering. The British call him "snow drop" ( snowdrop), and the Germans - with a “snow bell”. In the 19th century, thanks to the Scottish gardener Edward Bowles (1865-1954), the term “galanthophilia” appeared, and since then the love for this flower has not weakened.
Genus Galanthus has about 18 species, many of which are of interest to the garden. The most popular in modern gardening snowdrop white (G. nivalis), which grows easily and quickly, gradually taking over all available space. This species has more than 50 varieties, among which you can find very spectacular terry varieties. Elvis Snowdrop (G. elwesii) also has at least 15 garden forms. Close to him Caucasian snowdrop (G. caucasicus), with a delicate and refined aroma. Snowdrop latifolia (G. plathyphyllus) is considered one of the most promising species for the northern zones. In addition, a large number of hybrids have been bred to date, for example, " Atkinsii" - hybrid snow-white (G. nivalis) And folded snowdrops (G. plicatus), named after James Atkins ( James Atkins, 1804-1884), one of the first collectors and breeders of these flowers. Therefore, if you wish, you can collect a very impressive collection of these primroses, especially since many of them are distinguished by their unpretentiousness and high winter hardiness. In addition, garden varieties of galanthus have another valuable quality - their narrow leaves fade very quickly and do not spoil the appearance of the flower garden.
Galanthus prefer open spaces, but they can easily grow in partial shade, under the canopy of trees and shrubs. Soils are preferably moist enough, but at the same time loose and well-drained. Galanthus grow poorly in areas with stagnant water, as well as in heavy clay soils. The best time to buy and plant snowdrop bulbs is early August - September, when the plants are in their dormant period. If the autumn is long and warm, they can be planted in flower beds until early November. It is noteworthy that snowdrops themselves regulate the planting depth. If they are planted too deep, they will form a new bulb on the peduncle, already at the depth they need. When planted shallowly, the bulbs become smaller, but children actively form.
Galanthus reproduce vegetatively, forming favorable conditions two or three new bulbs per summer. Reproduction is also possible by seeds, which must be sown directly into the ground immediately after collecting the seeds. Such seedlings bloom in 4-5 years. Planted on lawns under a canopy of trees and shrubs, snowdrops can also reproduce by self-sowing.
Prefers fairly moist, loose, well-drained soils.
Does not tolerate areas where water stagnates.
Pests: mice and moles; cutworm butterfly caterpillars; slugs; bulb nematode.
Diseases: viral, fungal, chlorosis. Yellowing leaves are usually caused by poor planting location, poor drainage or growing conditions, rather than by nutrient deficiencies.
The flower firstborn of spring - that’s what they say about snowdrop, whose flowering symbolizes the end of the cold weather and winter period. At the first warm rays of the sun, when thawed patches form in the forest, snowdrops appear. Their delicate flowers contrast beautifully with their milky white color against the black soil. Some peoples associate the flowering of this plant with hope for new life, the arrival of heat. Today, if desired, any garden owner can acquire such beauty or summer cottage. All you have to do is pick appropriate place for snowdrops, read the description of the species and arm yourself with information about the specifics of its cultivation.
U different nations this primrose is known as different names. Yes, scientific Latin name galanthus (Galanthus), translated means milk flower. The English name Snowdrop means “snow drop”. In Germany the flower is called the snow bell.
Did you know? There are many legends about the origin of snowdrops. According to biblical legends, galanthus was the first flower that Eve saw after her expulsion from Paradise. Seeing him, she gained hope that God would not abandon people. Greek legend says that these flowers were formed from drops of breast milk mother of Apollo and Artemis, whose name was Leto.
Snowdrop: description of the first spring flowers
Snowdrop or galanthus - small (10-50 cm) perennial bulbous plant the amaryllis family with a short growing season. Distributed in near-mountain forests, on forest edges, along river banks in Europe and Asia Minor. The genus includes 18 species. Elveza, Voronova, common (snow-white), alpine, folded, Caucasian, etc. snowdrops are planted in cultivation.
Galanthus blooms in early spring with single white drooping bell-shaped flowers. The perianth consists of six petals 15-30 mm long. It has two linear leaves 0.5-3 cm wide and 10-20 cm long. It is one of the first to bloom among primroses - by the end of February - beginning of March, as soon as the snow begins to melt. When snowdrop flowers appear, the rest of the early spring crops are still dormant. The duration of their flowering is approximately one month. Most often they grow in groups.
Did you know? Snowdrops are also sometimes called other early flowering plants. spring plants. For example, anemone, blueberry. However, these are completely different plants.
In order for the description of the snowdrop to help you clearly determine its role on the site, it is necessary to explain the features of the development of the flower. The fact is that, like all plants with a short growing season, it spends most of the year underground. After flowering in February-April, fruiting and dying of leaves, it goes into hibernation. All other months the bulb develops. It gains strength for a new flowering period and feeds on nutrients. The bulb emerges from the dormant period in the fall (October) - this is when new roots begin to grow. December-January is the period when snowdrops begin to grow.
Despite its apparent external fragility, the plant is winter-hardy and tolerates sudden temperature changes in February and March. Easy to care for. Not demanding on soil composition. Not afraid of diseases and pests.
Growing snowdrops in the garden, varieties for cultivation
Growing galanthus in the garden is absolutely not difficult. Today their choice is huge - breeders have bred about 120 varieties and hybrids of this primrose. Types and varieties of snowdrops differ in stem height, color of lower petals, structure and size of flowers, flowering period and duration. Most often, snowdrops grown in dachas are Elveza, common (snow-white), folded and their varieties.
Did you know? All species of wild snowdrops are protected. Some varieties (snowdrops of Bortkevich and Voronov, Lagodekhi, folded, narrow-leaved, broad-leaved) are included in the register of rare and endangered plants in the Red Book. Their collection, sale and acquisition are punishable by a fine. It is allowed to sell only snowdrops grown in greenhouses.
Galanthus Elweza or southern (Galanthus elwesii) refers to tall species - reaches a height of 15-30 cm (some varieties grow up to half a meter). It has wide leaves - up to 2 cm. This type of snowdrop produces flowers early - in February-March (the period depends on the region of growth). Their petals are white with a yellow spot at the base. There are 15 known varieties of this species. 
Common galanthus (Galanthus nivalis) It blooms a little later than the Elveza snowdrop - in March-April. Its flowers grow up to 1.5-2.5 cm. The leaves are dark green, 10 cm in height. About 50 varieties of this species have been bred. The most common among them are Flore Pleno, Viridapice, Samuel Arnott.
Galanthus plicatus received this name because it has a fold on the leaves. The leaves are colored bluish-green, with curved edges. The flowers are white, 2-3 cm long. The lower petals have a bright yellow or yellow-green spot in the middle. Blooms in February-April. 
Despite the fact that galanthus is considered an unassuming plant, it is necessary to follow some recommendations for its planting and care.
Choosing a place for snowdrops in the garden
Galanthus prefers open, light areas with light shade, for example, under the shade of a bush or deciduous tree. The flower can grow in any soil, but is best grown in fertile, loose soil.
Important! The main condition for growing galanthus is an abundance of moisture in the spring.
How to plant snowdrops in the country
Planting galanthus in the country is not difficult. This is a very persistent flower; it can grow, enduring temporary droughts and long frosts followed by short thaws.
Preparing the soil for planting
The snowdrop is able to adapt to any soil, but still, if possible, you can help it quickly get used to the open ground. So, if you have clay soil, then you need to add sand to it. In any case, it is advisable to drain the soil - cover the bottom of the holes with compost or humus.
How to plant snowdrops, propagation of the first flowers of spring
How do snowdrops reproduce? There are several ways to plant new plants: seed and vegetative - by dividing the bulb. The seed method takes a long time - seedlings should be expected in 3-5 years. It is used very rarely. It is much faster and easier to propagate primroses by dividing the bulbs. This can be done in early spring. At this time, you can plant when the snowdrops are blooming. Or during the period of vegetative dormancy - after the leaves have dried: from July to September. For the first planting, bulbs must be purchased at a specialized store or separated from friends and neighbors. During the summer, one bush forms from one to four bulbs. Separation is best done when the group of plants reaches 7-9 specimens.
The bulbs must be planted no later than a month after purchase or separation. Otherwise, the flower will have much less chance of taking root in open ground. All this time, the bulbs must be stored in a cool place, perhaps in damp sand. Before planting the bulbs, you need to make sure that they are whole, without shoots, and not affected by mold and rot. Their roots should not be dry. A prerequisite is the integrity of the bottom of the bulb.
Did you know? Snowdrop bulbs contain the alkaloid galantamine and are therefore poisonous to humans. For the same reason, they are practically not affected by pests.
Planting depth depends on the soil. On loose soil, the bulb must be buried at a distance 2-3 times longer than the bulb itself. In heavy soils, planting is carried out along the length of the bulb, while the depth of the hole should not be less than 5 cm. Galanthus are usually planted in rows of 10-30 plants or in groups. If snowdrops are planted in the fall, then before the cold weather the soil must be mulched with peat or humus.
When six years have passed after planting, it is recommended to transplant snowdrops to a new place in the spring, without waiting for flowering and while the leaves are green. They are replanted with an old clod of earth without disturbing the bulb - snowdrops do not like this. They also do not tolerate being disturbed during the flowering period. In general, they react capriciously to transplantation - sometimes they even refuse to bloom for several years. Often you can wait two to three years for the first flowering. However, in the future, after the plant has taken root, it will bear flowers annually.
Secrets of growing snowdrops in the garden
So, you already know how and in what place to plant snowdrops, how to transplant them. Next, we’ll look at a few tips for caring for primroses in the garden. 
There are not many secrets to successfully growing galanthus. Firstly, if spring does not spoil with rain, then it is advisable to water the flowers. Watering is also carried out immediately after germination and during especially dry periods. Secondly, to trim the leaves, you should wait until the dormant period begins - when they naturally die. Otherwise, you can disrupt the development process of the bulbs and provoke a stop in flowering in the next season.
Russian - snowdrop, English - Snowdrop - snow earring, of course, indicate the early period of flowering of this plant, “literally from under the snow.” The English call the snowdrop a snow drop or a snow earring, and the Germans call it a snow bell. For the French and Italians it is a snow driller, for the Czechs it is a snowflake. And the Bulgarians, because the plant defies winter, call it kokiche, i.e. bully. These plants love spring so much that sometimes its faint breath is enough for their petals to open and shine with happiness.
The Latin name “Galanthus” presumably consists of Greek roots, translated meaning “milk flower”. This name probably reflects the delicate snow-white color of the snowdrop. Galanthus is the first to bloom, sometimes already in the February thaw, with milky white bells of flowers. In different climatic zones of Europe, snowdrops bloom at different times, from December-January to March-April. In Western Europe, these beautiful flowers usually bloom in late January - early February.
Galanthus is often confused with spring whiteflower. They belong to the same family and have very similar flowers, but the white flower blooms later, some of its forms bloom only in June and even in autumn. Unlike galanthus, it loves moist, nutritious soils with a predominance of nitrogen.
Snowdrops are unpretentious and easily propagated by seeds and bulbs. Replanted after 5-6 years. The bulbs are medium-sized, up to 3 cm in diameter, round, fleshy, with yellowish outer scales. The leaves are gray-green, narrow-linear, saber-shaped or belt-shaped, 1-4 cm wide. The flowers are drooping, bell-shaped, 2-3 cm long. In spring they need sufficient moisture. Snowdrops spend most of the year as bulbs underground. In autumn, the bulbs “wake up” and begin to grow roots. At the end of winter or spring, they begin to grow and bloom. After flowering ends and before the leaves die, the bulb stores nutrients and gains strength.
Snowdrops: photo
Main types and varieties of galanthus (snowdrop)
Snowdrops (galanthus), as well as scylla or muscari. It is better to plant in groups. Single flowers do not look so impressive. This plant is great for borders. Thanks to their small root system, galanthus can be grown even on a tiny piece of land, so they are suitable for all kinds of alpine slides and rocky gardens.
Snowdrops are planted under trees as an early ground cover. Galanthus also look organic in coniferous evergreen mixborders. In such plantings they are especially good because they combine well with other spring perennials and annual plants, the growing season of which begins after the snowdrops bloom.
Location and landing. Galanthus prefer open places, but can also grow under trees. Their growing season is early spring, when trees and shrubs are still without leaves. IN natural conditions Snowdrops are usually found in sunny forest clearings where the snow melts earlier than in other places.
They are planted in groups of 10-20 plants at any time when the bulbs are at rest. This time is from mid-June to November. The planting depth is approximately one and a half to two times the height of the bulb. If planted too deeply, new bulbs are large and grow closer to the surface, and if planted too shallow, many bulbs are formed.
The soil. Snowdrops are planted in a variety of soils, but they grow poorly in heavy clay soils. Snowdrops do not like stagnant water in the area.
Wintering. Snowdrops are winter-hardy plants. They are well preserved in the soil even in very frosty winters.
Reproduction. Galanthus reproduce by baby bulbs and self-sowing. Usually two or three new bulbs are formed over the summer. To keep them large and healthy, the leaves do not need to be trimmed until they dry out on their own. Periodically (every 3-5 years) the plantings are renewed, the overgrown families are dug up, the children are separated and the bulbs are planted.
Buying bulbs. Like other bulbous plants, a high-quality galanthus bulb is hard, smooth, and has no visible damage. But unlike hyacinths. Snowdrop bulbs do not tolerate prolonged exposure to air. They should not be stored for more than two months.
Snowdrops can rarely be bought in stores; they are usually purchased from amateur gardeners. They are usually sold during the flowering period, when they look beautiful. This is the worst time to transplant. But since the plants are unpretentious, most often they survive and bloom next year.
Family: Amaryllidaceae
Etymology
In Latin, the name of the plant means “milk flowers”, in English - “drops of snow”, “snow drops” or “snow earrings”, in German - “snow bells”, in French - “snow drills”, in Czech - “snowflakes” and in Russian - “snowdrops”.
Types and varieties of snowdrops
The genus includes about 20 species, common in the nature of Central and Southern Europe, Crimea, the Caucasus and Asia Minor. The largest number of snowdrops, about 16 species, are found in the Caucasus.
Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis), several other species similar to it are quite widespread appearance and requirements for growing conditions and care.
The snowdrop has a real bulb - a round fleshy cluster, 1-3 cm in diameter, with brown or golden outer scales. The leaves are blue-green, narrow-linear, saber-shaped or belt-shaped, 1-4 cm wide. The flowers are drooping, bell-shaped, 2-3 cm long.
Snowdrop, white galanthus (Galanthus nivalis)
Homeland - meadows and forests of Europe.
In central Russia, the most stable species of the genus.
"Flore Pleno"
It reproduces vegetatively and by seeds, and self-sows.
Varieties of snowdrop white:
There are about 500 varieties in the snowdrop genus, most of which are white snowdrop varieties. Among them there are plants with simple, semi-double, and double flowers. Varieties also differ in the time and duration of flowering and other less obvious characteristics.
Poculiformis Group - the internal and external segments of a goblet flower are almost the same length and have no spots, for example, the variety "Sandhill Gate". Sandersis Group - not only the spots on the “petals” are yellowish, but also the leaves, for example the varieties “Flavescens”, “Lutescens”, “Sandersii”, “Ray Cobb”, “Savin Gold” (more capricious in cultivation). Scharlockii "elongated leaf involucres are divided in half in the center, reminiscent of donkey ears. Viridescens", or "green snowdrop" - pale green spots cover about two-thirds of the outer "petals" of the variety; Snow White Gnome" — low-growing variety, up to 5 cm tall in bloom.
Snowdrop varieties with double flowers:
Terry varieties differ from simple ones in that they have 3-5 outer tepals and 12-21 inner ones.
Flore Pleno "has been known since 1703. Its internal segments are of different lengths,
Snowdrop Elweza, Galanthus Elwesii (Galanthus elwesii)
Homeland - mountain meadows, forests of South-Eastern Europe.
Grows up to 25 cm in height. The leaves are lanceolate, 1.5-3 cm wide, glaucous (in the buds, one leaf covers the other). The species can be distinguished by its belt-shaped, grayish leaves with a hood at the top. The flowers are white, large (up to 4-5 cm in length), with green spots on the inner tepals, spherical, fragrant. It blooms earlier than the white snowdrop, flowering lasts 3-4 weeks.
Often cultivated, mainly in Western Europe. Has many garden varieties. The species is stable in culture.
Popular varieties of snowdrop Elveza:
"Comet" is a variety with a large, well-built flower on a long arched peduncle; green markings on the outer segments vary significantly; Two Eyes" is a variety with two small spots at the base of each internal segment and a heart-shaped mark at the apex; "Kite" is a variety with two flowers on a divided peduncle.
galanthus, or snowdrop on Zeleno.ru - galanthus, or snowdrop (galanthus)
Name: translated from ancient Greek means milky-flowered, given for the white color of the flowers. Representatives of the genus are named “Snowdrop” for their very early flowering, which occurs literally from under the snow.
Description: The genus includes about 18 species, common in the nature of Central and Southern Europe, Crimea, the Caucasus and Asia Minor. Low bulbous plants with two linear leaves 10-20 cm long, which appear simultaneously with flower stalks. The flowers are solitary, bell-shaped, drooping. White perianth of six leaflets: the outer three are elliptical or obovate, the inner ones are wedge-shaped, with a green spot at the apex, with or without a notch. The fruit is a capsule. The bulbs are ovoid or conical. The outer scales are light brown or brown.
Snow galanthus - G. nivalis L.
It grows wild in the south of European Russia, the Caucasus, Europe and the Mediterranean.
A bulbous, early spring plant with flat dark green or bluish leaves up to 10 cm long. The bulb is round, up to 2 cm in diameter. Peduncles up to 12 cm tall. The flowers are solitary, up to 3 cm in diameter, with a pleasant aroma, drooping, white with a green spot at the ends of the tepals. The outer tepals are oblong, the inner ones are wedge-shaped, smaller than the outer ones. Blooms earlier than all snowdrops, in late March - early
April about 30 days. In culture since 1500.
It has more than 50 varieties and garden forms, including terry ( var. flore-pleno hort.) - peduncles up to 10 cm tall, perianth of 12 leaflets, larger, internal lobes with a yellow-green spot. It blooms in April for 13-17 days, does not bear fruit. Overwinters under light cover.
It grows wild in the Caucasus and Northern Iran.
A plant with flat, linear, bluish leaves, up to 30 cm long. Peduncles up to 10 cm tall. The flowers are white, 2-2.5 cm long and 1.5 cm in diameter, with a pleasant aroma. Inner perianth lobes with a green spot at the end of the petals. It blooms from the beginning of April for two weeks. Fruits irregularly. IN middle lane winters under light cover. In culture since 1887.
Grows wildly in the forests of Crimea and Moldova.
One of the largest representatives of the genus. The leaves at the beginning of flowering have a bluish bloom, later they become shiny and dark green. Peduncles up to 16 cm tall. Flowers are 2.5-3 cm long and up to 4 cm in diameter. Blooms in March for 20-25 days. The bulbs are ovoid up to 3 cm in diameter. In culture since 1592. Has more than ten garden forms.
It grows naturally in Eastern and Western Transcaucasia.
Galanthus Elvesa - G. EIwesii
Originally from Asia Minor.
This is a tall species, the flower stalks of which can reach a height of 15-25 cm. The leaves of this species are wide, sometimes up to 2 cm, and bluish-green in color. The flowers are white, large, spherical. It blooms earlier than the snowdrop, in February.
Location: grow under the canopy of trees and shrubs, in partial shade, but prefer open places. Winter-hardy.
The soil: They develop best in sufficiently moist, loose, well-drained nutritious soil after adding humus or compost. Snowdrops cannot tolerate high, dry or low areas with stagnant water. Heavy clay soils require adding sand.
Care: Leaves should not be cut off until they are completely dead.
Reproduction: Plants reproduce vegetatively, forming one or two bulbs over the summer. The folded snowdrop reproduces especially actively: it produces 3-4 bulbs. Snowdrops are replanted after the leaves die off in late August - early September. Plants transplanted in the spring during flowering almost always die. The planting depth of the bulbs is 8 cm; replanting should be done after five to six years, but snowdrops grow well in one place without replanting and for a longer time.
Reproduction is also possible by seeds. Sowing is carried out directly into the ground immediately after harvesting, and the plants bloom in the 4th - 5th year. Planted on lawns under a canopy of trees and shrubs, they reproduce by self-seeding.
Usage: for a variety of floral designs. Snowdrops are very decorative in large groups, not only in rock gardens, but also in the form of “carpets” under trees and shrubs in light partial shade, as well as in the form of white lawns among the lawn. Miniature bouquets of snowdrops can stand in water for a long time, and with a simple arrangement in crystal vases they look attractive and expressive.
Partners: These crops are recommended for creating early flowering groups in the shade in combination with scillas, corydalis, lungwort, and primrose. Snowdrops can also be used in mixed plantings with medium-sized and tall late-growing perennials: ferns, hosta, peonies.
material partially borrowed from the site
The primrose about which fairy tales are told. A flower familiar from childhood, it is endangered because its touching beauty encourages people to mindlessly tear bouquets, often with bulbs. We will talk about a well-known plant that is the first to emerge from under the spring snow.
First, two leaves protrude from under the snow cover, and then the plant blooms with small bells. Snowdrops are not afraid of the vagaries of nature. They can easily tolerate biting frosts, rains and snowfalls. Snowdrop flowers are considered a harbinger of spring. With all their appearance they shout that spring is coming and winter is a thing of the past.
Description of snowdrop galanthus
Snowdrop belongs to the Amaryllidaceae family and is also called Galanthus. Snowdrop is a perennial herb. There are 18 varieties in total, native to Europe and Asia. The leader in snowdrops is the Caucasus. It contains 16 varieties. But no scientist is sure about the exact number of species. Disputes about the identity of this or that flower are ongoing.
Snowdrops are small in size, have two leaves about 15 cm long. There are single, drooping and bell-shaped types of flowers. The perianth is white and has six leaves. The scent of snowdrops is delicate and unobtrusive. Snowdrops have round fruits and dark-colored seeds. The seeds attract ants, who take them away, spreading the flowers throughout the area.
About the bulbs. consists of scales and bottom. Buds appear in the scales, and later new bulbs form from them. The upper layers of scales perform a protective function. These scales are the thinnest and black in color. The top of the bulb is covered with a brown skin. The bulb absorbs and absorbs the beneficial nutrients the snowdrop needs to survive alone in difficult conditions. The snowdrop “sleeps” for 9 months, right time blooms instantly.
Curious facts
Every species of snowdrop is protected, and several species are considered endangered and need saving.
The snowdrop is named due to its early appearance. When it blooms, the ground is covered with snow. The second name, galanthus, comes from Greece. Translated: "milk flower". The flower received its second name because of its delicate white color.
Legends were made about these flowers. One is about Adam and Eve. On the day of their expulsion there was snowfall. Eva remembered the fabulous warm days gone by and burst into tears. Suddenly several snowflakes became snowdrop flowers. Because of this, snowdrops are called the first flowers on the planet.
Planting and caring for galanthus in open ground
It is advisable to plant at the end of summer. Suitable months: July, August, September. During this period, the bulbs remain dormant. You'll be lucky when autumn drags on and the cold doesn't set in, so planting can be delayed until November. You can buy snowdrops in bloom, but this is a bad idea. The leaves will begin to die after transplantation, but life will remain in the bulb. Yes, the snowdrop will live, but next spring it will bloom poorly or not a single flower will appear.
Evaluate the bulbs before purchasing. Choose heavy ones with solid shells. There should be no shoots. If there are shoots, then do not delay planting. Plant snowdrops within the first hours after purchase. Cuts are not terrible either, but in the area of scales. The bottom should be good and solid. If the bulb does not have a top, but the bottom and buds remain, the bulb is capable of blooming. Be careful: if the onion is bruised, it has begun to rot. And this is irreparable.
There is nothing special about planting snowdrops
- The bulb is buried in loose soil to a shallow depth equal to two bulbs. But still, the depth should exceed 5 cm. You don’t have to worry about this - even if you plant the snowdrops inaccurately, the bulb will adjust the depth itself.
- Consider important feature: If the bulb is planted shallow, it will begin to shrink but bear fruit well, and if deeper, the plant will increase in size.
Growing conditions
It is better to plant snowdrops in the shade, but not in the cold. The soil should be warmed by the sun's rays. If you are replanting a wild, wild flower, it is better to choose a bright, sunny area.
- Snowdrops count. Loose, moist soil is suitable for them.
- Flowers do not like low areas of land with standing water, suffer from windy, high and dry areas.
- If the soil is hard and clayey, you need to add sand there.
- Snowdrops do not need regular watering. It is necessary to water only in case of drought and lack of precipitation. Snowdrops are able to exist independently, separately.
Snowdrops reproduce quickly by self-seeding. Buy snowdrop seeds in August and seedlings in the winter months. Most often, plants with large flowers and early flowering are purchased. Specialized garden stores have big choice snowdrop seeds.
How to care for snowdrops?
- Do not cut off the leaves until they are completely dead.
- During the growth period of the plant, do not forget to fertilize it with inorganic means. Make sure that the fertilizer should not contain nitrogen. Nitrogen provokes excessive leaf growth, leading to disease and fungal diseases. It is useful to fertilize with potassium and phosphates. Potassium strengthens the bulbs and prepares them for winter season. Phosphorus has a positive effect on flowers.
- During the growth period, snowdrops require a lot of water. Nature provides plants on its own the right amount liquid, but in case of drought the gardener will have to take care of this. This is not difficult, the flowers are resistant to any weather and will not die even in the event of drought. They will only grow weakly. And flowers can sow seeds on their own.
How do snowdrops reproduce?
Snowdrops are distinguished by vegetative propagation. In one season, 2-3 bulbs appear. The folded variety reproduces more actively than the others; it forms 3-4 bulbs. Replant approximately at the end of summer, at the beginning of autumn, when the leaves die. A transplanted plant will not survive one hundred percent in the spring. It is advisable to replant flowers after five years, but flowers can feel great without replanting.
Snowdrops can also reproduce using seeds. Sowing is possible after harvesting. In this case, flowers can be expected for 4-5 years. If you plant a snowdrop in a comfortable environment, it will reproduce by self-seeding.
Application
Snowdrops can be used as decoration and home decoration. Bouquets of snowdrops do not wither for a long time and stand in water for a long time. Snowdrops look bright and elegant. Snowdrops also effectively decorate gardens. In the form of “carpets”, snow-white lawns on a clean lawn, flowers look advantageous.
Snowdrops should be planted together, several dozen at a time. Snowdrops have one drawback: the above-ground part dies off early. You can get rid of this drawback by planting the plant in a flower garden. They can be planted next to large flowers with voluminous leaves. The main thing is not to completely deprive flowers of light during the active period. When planting, choose the illuminated side. During the rest period, they are not afraid of shadows and darkness.
Don’t worry about falling leaves, you don’t need to remove them, they are a hindrance to the flowers. Snowdrops will inevitably grow through them in spring. Rotten leaves provide great nutrition to the bulbs and help maintain moisture. If you need to remove old foliage, do it in the fall. In spring, you run the risk of damaging young plants.
Partnership
Snowdrops are combined with lungwort, primrose, scillas and corydalis. It is permissible to plant snowdrops with perennial plants: peonies or ferns.
Varieties of snowdrop
Galanthus snowy or snow-white Galanthus nivalis
It grows in the south of Russia, mainly in the Caucasus, Europe and the Mediterranean. It has a bulbous shape. Appears in early spring. The leaves reach up to 10 cm in length, are dark, with bluish or green tint color The bulb is round in shape, diameter less than 2 cm. Flower size does not exceed 12 cm.
Flowers grow solitary, medium in size, diameter less than 3 cm. Snow galanthus white, with a green speck at the ends, smells nice. The outer perianth leaves are oblong in shape. The leaves on the inside are wedge-shaped and smaller than the outside ones. The snow-white snowdrop blooms among its own kind in the last week of March or in the first week of early April. Flowering continues for a month.
Galanthus Caucasian or Alpine Galanthus alpinus = Galanthus caucasicus
The variety can be found in the Caucasus or northern Iran. The leaves are bluish in color, flat, long - up to 30 cm. Peduncles do not exceed 10 cm. The flowers have a delicate aroma, diameter 1.5 cm, reach 2 cm in length. At the end of the perianth there is a green spot inside. Blooms for a short period of time: 2 weeks. Flowering begins in the first days of April. It produces fruit unsteadily. Shelter is required for overwintering.
Galanthus plicatus
Wild flowers can be seen in the mountains of Crimea. It is a Crimean and Moldavian endemic. It is larger in size than other types of snowdrops. When the folded galanthus begins to bloom, its leaves have a bluish tint, and over time they begin to shine and acquire dark green color. The peduncle reaches 16 cm in height. The diameter of the flowers is 4 cm, length 2.5 - 3 cm. Flowering period: at least 20 days. Blooms early, in early March. The bulb has an egg shape. Leaves remain until last days July. The summer sun helps them replenish their energy. They die off in August.
Galanthus broadleaf or flat-leaved Galanthus platyphyllus
Grows in Western and Eastern Transcaucasia. Since it is a northern species, it is very cold-tolerant. There is no bluish tint on the leaves. The diameter of the flower reaches 4 cm, length - 3 cm. The smell is weak, practically not felt. It blooms for 30 days, its flowering month is April. The bulbs are shaped like a cone, sometimes an egg. Bulb size: 5*3 cm.
Elwes galanthus galanthus elwesii
The snowdrop species came from Asia Minor. The variety is large in size, reaching considerable height at the peak of its growth. Peduncles sometimes extend 25 cm upward. Galanthus Elwesa is distinguished by its wide-shaped leaves. The width can reach 2 cm. The leaves have a bluish tint. The flowers are crystal white and spherical in shape. The flower of this variety is large and voluminous in size. The peculiarity of Galanthus Elwes is that it blooms in winter, in February.
Voronov's snowdrop Galanthus woronowii
Yellow scales are clearly visible on the bulb. Its diameter is 3 cm. Voronov's snowdrop has a silver-colored stem and a ribbed structure. Its height is less than 25 cm. The leaves are sharp at the ends and widen towards the top. Leaf color is pale green. The length of the leaves coincides with the stem, 20-25 cm. When Voronov’s snowdrop first emerges, its leaves look flat, then they become longer than the stem, and folds form.
The folds are turned towards the outside. This variety blooms early, usually in February-March. If circumstances are favorable, Voronov's snowdrop can bloom in January. Leaves peek out of the snow at the same time as flowers. The variety grows in Western Transcaucasia, forest areas of the mountain complex. It is possible to see Voronov’s snowdrop abroad. This is the Turkish coast, the island of Ikaria, located in the Aegean Sea.
Diseases and pests
Moles and mice. Mice with moles mainly damage the bulbs; rodents dig holes to live in at the planting site. The mouse unceremoniously grabs the onion, running away with it into the “house”. If there is damage on the bulb, then rotting processes begin. An inferior, weak, non-viable plant grows from a rotten bulb.
The situation can be fixed. The bulb must be dug out of the ground, parts with signs of rotting must be cut out, and the remaining area must be sprinkled with ash. To ensure that the ash is successfully absorbed, hold the bulb in the open air and then bury it. Preventive measures the following: do not place turf with grass near the plantings. Mice love to live in the grass. The disgusting rodents move within 3 m of their nest. If you cannot change the location of the bed, set traps. Find the instructions and follow them strictly. Keep in mind that mice can be easily caught using plant bait.
Caterpillars and butterflies. A well-known enemy of snowdrop bulbs. The caterpillars appear thick and gray in color. In autumn, caterpillars are easy to see and destroy. IN autumn period pests are preparing to pupate.
Slugs. Slugs live underground. These pests prefer heavy clay soil. Getting rid of slugs is not difficult, any farmer can do it. For sale effective means to fight slugs. But it’s realistic to solve the problem yourself. When burying the bulb underground, surround it with large flakes of sand.
Bulb nematode. The nematode is a small thin worm. The nematode lives inside the soil. Capable of living inside dead or partially dying plants. Harmful to healthy bulbs. The leaves are affected by yellow pimples popping up along the edges. The healthy part is separated from the affected part by a black ring. Such signs allow us to conclude that the plant has been damaged by bulb nematodes.
There is only one way out: dig up the affected flowers and later get rid of them. About untouched healthy plants also needs to be taken care of. Dig the snowdrops out of the ground and leave them in hot water. The water temperature should reach less than 45 degrees, but more than 40. Transplant the snowdrops to another area; do not plant in the empty area for the next 5 years.
Viruses. Viruses are like marks on foliage. The marks are pale green or yellow. Infection of a plant by viruses is indicated by unnatural leaf covering, dents, curls, and bumps. Get rid of the infected snowdrop before the infection spreads to other flowers. There is no need to worry about the seeds. The plant disease does not affect the seed. Replant a bad plant and you can give your snowdrop new life.
Fungal infections. You can independently calculate the appearance of the fungus by three signs: a gray coating resembling fluff, blackening and dark marks on the foliage. All signs are formed during dampness, but in the absence of severe cold. The disease appears first at soil level, but later rises higher and higher. If gray mold or spots resembling rust are noticeable on the snowdrop, keep in mind that the flower is infected with a fungus.
Carefully remove the contaminated parts by throwing them into the fire. There is no need to get rid of the plant; it is not hopeless. Find the appropriate instructions for garden care, treating plants with fungicides. Follow the instructions strictly and the snowdrop will be saved!
Chlorosis. Chlorosis is the yellowing of snowdrop leaves. People who believe that soil quality and a lack of soil nutrients are to blame for the appearance of chlorosis are greatly mistaken. Snowdrop leaves turn yellow due to disease, and not due to soil deficiencies. Chlorosis can appear due to improper plant care. The farmer must create the necessary conditions for the plant, pay attention to getting sun rays on the flower, ensure drainage. If there is little rainfall, the snowdrop does not receive from nature required quantity moisture, the gardener must water it manually.
You can leave useful comments and talk about your personal experience of growing snowdrops.
Snowdrops, or galanthus (Galanthus), appear at the end of winter or early spring in thawed areas without snow. These perennial bulbous plants are unpretentious; they are planted every 5 - 6 years.
Galanthus, photo by David Paloch
Description
Snowdrop, or galanthus, is a perennial bulbous plant of the Amaryllidaceae family that grows in Europe, the Caucasus, Moldova, Ukraine, Georgia, Azerbaijan, as well as in the western part of Asia Minor and its neighboring region. It's about about a specific plant - galanthus, and not about those primroses that are collectively called snowdrops. The genus name comes from the Greek words "gala" ("milk") and "anthos" ("flower"). The "milk flower" is meant to be milky white in color. According to one legend, a snowdrop appeared from a snowflake melted by the breath of an angel.
In nature, galanthus can be seen on forest edges, along river banks or in mountain meadows. Lately there have been fewer and fewer snowdrops. In many places they are on the verge of extinction. The main culprit for this is man. I want to pick a cute flower, bring it into the house and put it in a vase, or collect as many snowdrops as possible for sale. I remember well the times when bouquets of snowdrops were sold on March 8th for “five kopecks” from hand near every metro exit, at the doors of shops and in markets.
Galanthus bulbs are found shallow in the ground and are easy to pull out of the soil when picking flowers. Such bulbs do not take root and die. In order to preserve this plant, the sale of bouquets of snowdrops is currently prohibited, and several species are included in the regional Red Books, including Krasnodar region. The Caucasian snowdrop is included in the Red Book of Russia. Snowdrops are also on the European Red List. Growing it in private plots, parks and botanical gardens helps protect this plant from final extinction.
The height of a blooming snowdrop is 10 cm and above, but “I assure you: no palm tree, no tree of knowledge, no victorious laurels surpass in beauty this fragile white cup on a pale stem swaying in the cold wind” (Karel Capek “The Year of the Gardener” ). In February or March (depending on the weather) a drooping flower appears. It has a perianth consisting of 6 white petals: three outer (oval) and three inner (shorter, with a green or yellow spot). The leaves are flat, linear or lanceolate, up to 1 cm wide. They are green or grayish-green. Each bulb annually produces a flower, which is held on a thin peduncle. The fruit is a fleshy, fairly large capsule containing spherical seeds.
Snowdrop species
The snowdrop genus includes 18 species. Some of them are cultivated in our country and in Western Europe.
snowdrop snow, or snow-white, (Galanthus nivalis) is the most common type. It is native to the shady deciduous forests of Europe and also grows in the forests of the Carpathian Mountains. Its height is 10 - 15 cm. There are taller garden forms and varieties of snowdrop, for example, "Viridapisis" (blooms in February - March). The leaves of snowdrops are grayish-green and flat. Their length is about 10 cm, and their width is from 0.4 to 1 cm. The drooping flower (1 - 3 cm long) has green spots at the ends of the inner petals. The Lutescens variety has flowers with a yellow spot. They say he is quite capricious. There are snow-white snowdrops with double flowers (“Flore Pleno”, “Pusi Green Type” and “Ophelia”). All amateur gardeners dream about them. However, in drooping flowers, the doubleness is noticeable only at a close distance. The garden snowdrop “Atkensy” grows very quickly, which was obtained from crossing snow-white and folded snowdrops.
Snowdrop Elwes (Galanthus Elwesii) has a different origin. He comes from Asia Minor. The height of this species is about 15 - 25 cm. It has wider (up to 2 cm) bluish-green leaves, tall (15 - 25 cm) peduncles and large spherical white flowers. The Elwes snowdrop blooms first, often in late February. Hybrids have appeared that are distinguished by both decorativeness and hardiness. The most popular is the early flowering “S. Atnott" (with large fragrant flowers).
Snowdrop folded (Galanthus plicatus) grows in Crimea (especially in the vicinity of Yalta and Alushta), in Moldova, in the Caucasus, and in Romania and Turkey. He gave a number of interesting garden forms and varieties. This snowdrop has its own characteristics. This is a strong aroma, a waxy coating on the leaves during the flowering period and a greasy sheen after flowering. The edges of the bluish-green leaves are curved downwards. The inner petals have a green spot. Flowering in March - April. There is also a terry uniform “Vargam”, which, according to legend, during Crimean War in the middle of the 19th century it was brought to England.
Snowdrop icarian (Galanthus ikariae) from the shady forests of Greece and its islands prefers sandy, rocky and calcareous soils. The inner petals of the flower are decorated with green spots. This snowdrop grows in many botanical gardens, it was widely distributed and even found its way to the outskirts of Sochi (it blooms in the famous Krasnaya Polyana).
Forster's snowdrop (Galanthus forsterii) broadleaf, this species, originally from Lebanon, has become popular in Western Europe. Blooms in spring.
Snowdrop Voronova (Galanthus voronowii) grows in forests on the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus and Turkey. It has flowers with a green spot at the top of the inner petals. Snowdrops form daughter bulbs so actively that on one square meter you can count up to 250 or more galanthus. Their number is replenished by numerous seedlings that appear near the mother plant. Voronov's snowdrop is boldly used for medicinal purposes, not always taking into account many serious contraindications.
Speaking about flowers, one cannot fail to mention not only their decorative, but also medicinal capabilities. Some reference books on medicinal plants describe medicinal properties snowdrops. However, R.B. Akhmetov, a good expert medicinal herbs and their effects on the body, warns that “Voronov’s snowdrop preparations are contraindicated for epilepsy, hyperkinesis, bronchial asthma, angina pectoris, bradycardia. Some other related species of snowdrops must also be treated with great caution.”
Care
Place. Both sunny and slightly shaded places are suitable for galanthus. Those on which thawed patches appear early. Shady places not suitable, if only because the snow lies there for a long time. You should not plant galanthus in low places because of possible stagnation of water. Winter-hardy galanthus in nature prefers calcareous and loamy soils. They should be relatively loose and allow water to pass through well. In autumn, plantings of galanthus can be covered with a small layer of loose compost. The spruce branches often do a disservice, as they retain snow and prevent the appearance of thawed patches.
Feeding. Snowdrops do not tolerate fresh manure. Complex mineral fertilizers or special fertilizers for bulbous crops are preferable. When planting, add dry humus, ash or bone meal to the ground.
Planting and propagation. Snowdrops are replanted after 5 - 6 years. Only after flowering ends. You should not try to plant galanthus during the flowering period, since most often after this they do not take root and die. When dividing nests, the rounded bulbs (about 3 cm in diameter) are not dried, but are immediately transplanted to a new location. It is important not to dry out the acquired bulbs, as galanthus do not respond well to dehydration. The purchased bulbs must be elastic; they are immediately planted in the soil. It is better not to take drying bulbs.
There are several opinions about when it is better to replant snowdrops: in August or after the end of flowering (while the leaves are still clearly visible). Most gardeners consider the most favorable period from June to August. At this time, the plant is dormant. Old roots stop functioning and die, but new ones have not yet appeared. It is during this period that it is better to purchase and plant snowdrop bulbs and divide overgrown galanthus families.
Snowdrops are propagated by daughter bulbs and seeds. Seed propagation occurs without problems. Fresh seeds are sown to a depth of about 1 cm in heavier soil and to a depth of 2 cm in loose, light soil. Seedlings bloom from the third year. When planting bulbs, I follow the “golden” rule and deviate from it only in rare cases. The essence of this rule is that the depth of the planting hole corresponds to three times the height of the bulb. In the hole, the lower 1/3 part is occupied by the bulb, and the upper 2/3 parts are occupied by the soil with which the bulb is sprinkled. In the fall, you can additionally insulate the planting areas of bulbous crops, but at the time of planting you should adhere to this particular “constant”.
Decorative. Snowdrops look very beautiful when they grow in large groups. They can be planted among rock garden stones, on ridges, in flower beds, under trees and on lawns.
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