Snowdrop Galanthus elwesii 'Green Brush'

Water

The common name for Galanthus elwesii 'Green Brush' is Giant Snowdrop. To properly water Giant Snowdrop, it should be watered deeply so that the moisture reaches the bulbs, but this should be done sparingly. During the active growth period in late winter and spring, water when the top inch of soil feels dry, usually about once a week, with approximately a half gallon for outdoor plants and less for those in containers. Cut back on watering after the leaves yellow and die back, as the plant is entering dormancy. Over the summer, when the plant is dormant, watering is generally unnecessary unless there is an extended period of drought.

Light

Giant Snowdrop thrives in partial to full shade conditions. The best spot for this plant is typically under deciduous trees or shrubs where they receive dappled sunlight in the spring before the foliage of the trees fully develops, and then shade during the summer months. Avoid placing them in full sun, as this can cause the plant to overheat and potentially damage the foliage.

Temperature

The Giant Snowdrop prefers cool to moderate temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 7. It can survive minimum temperatures of around -40 degrees Fahrenheit during its dormant period in the winter. The ideal temperature range for active growth is between 35 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This plant is not suited to very warm climates, as it requires a period of cold to prompt flowering.

Pruning

Pruning of Giant Snowdrop is generally not required as they are low maintenance plants. Deadheading, or the removal of spent flowers, can be done to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if desired. The best time for any form of light pruning would be after the flowers have faded and before the leaves have died back completely.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Giant Snowdrop 'Green Brush' thrives best in a soil mix that is rich, moist, and well-draining, with a preferred pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A suitable mix can be made from equal parts of loam, leaf mold or compost, and sharp sand to ensure proper drainage.

Repotting

The Giant Snowdrop 'Green Brush' typically does not need frequent repotting; it can be repotted every 3 to 5 years or when the bulbs multiply and become overcrowded in their current container.

Humidity & Misting

The Giant Snowdrop 'Green Brush' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity, which mimics its natural woodland habitat. Average indoor humidity should be sufficient.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.

• Outdoor

  Plant in dappled shade, and ensure soil remains moist.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Galanthus elwesii 'Green Brush', commonly known as 'Green Brush' snowdrop, begins its life as a bulb, which remains dormant underground during the hot summer months. In late winter to early spring, the bulb breaks dormancy and produces narrow, lanceolate leaves along with singular, nodding white flowers that have unique green markings on the inner petals. After flowering, the plant undergoes photosynthesis to gather energy, which is stored in the bulb for the next season. Once the leaves yellow and die back in late spring, the plant goes dormant again. Throughout its life, the plant may produce offsets or daughter bulbs that grow into genetically identical clones, gradually forming clumps. Seed production is possible after pollination, allowing for genetic diversity and dispersal to new growing areas, although in cultivation, bulbs are more commonly divided to propagate the plant.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• The most popular method of propagating Galanthus elwesii 'Green Brush', commonly known as the Giant Snowdrop, is via offset bulbs. The ideal time to propagate is when the plant's foliage has yellowed and started to die back, typically in late spring or early summer. To propagate, carefully lift the clump of snowdrops from the ground using a garden fork, ensuring minimal disturbance to the roots. Once lifted, gently separate the offset bulbs from the parent bulb. These offsets are smaller bulbs that have formed at the base of the parent plant. Replant the offsets immediately at the same depth they were growing originally, which is typically around 3 inches (approximately 7.6 centimeters) deep, spacing them about 3 inches apart. This method is straightforward and usually results in flowering plants within one to two growing seasons.