Why plant snowdrops now?

In the green is the way to get the best results, says Ruth

- Ruth Hayes

A MONG the relentless and seemingly never ending bitter cold that struck last month, one ray of light was the appearance of the first snowdrop buds.

They appeared bravely amidst the last of the snow and gave hope that despite the biting temperatures, spring was on its way.

While most spring bulbs are put in the ground in autumn, some can be planted now while they are still in leaf or even in flower. This is known as planting 'in the green' and it works particularly well with snowdrops, sunny yellow winter aconites and, later on, bluebells.

 It usually yields better results than starting with small, dried bulbs in autumn, because you can tell the plants are alive and growing well and their roots will soon re-establish in the soil.

Growing from bulbs once the summer has finished can be successful, but because snowdrop bulbs are so small, they tend can dry out in their packets before planting. They are also a sought-after delicacy for mice and squirrels.