Troubleshooting
Forbes' Glory of the Snow problems — and how to fix them
Forbes' Glory of the Snow (Chionodoxa forbesii) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Bulb rot
Results from waterlogged, poorly drained soil; plant in raised beds or add grit to improve drainage.
Squirrel damage
Squirrels dig up and eat small bulbs; protect newly planted bulbs with wire mesh laid over the planting area.
Failure to naturalise
Usually caused by excessively heavy or wet soil; improve drainage and plant at 3-5 times the bulb's own depth.
Sparse flowering over time
Can indicate over-crowding; lift and divide congested clumps every 3-4 years after the foliage dies back.
Botrytis
Grey mould on leaves in prolonged damp conditions; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Prevent forbes' glory of the snow problems before they start
Most forbes' glory of the snow issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Forbes' Glory of the Snow problems — FAQ
Why is my forbes' glory of the snow bulb rot?
Results from waterlogged, poorly drained soil; plant in raised beds or add grit to improve drainage.
Why is my forbes' glory of the snow squirrel damage?
Squirrels dig up and eat small bulbs; protect newly planted bulbs with wire mesh laid over the planting area.
Why is my forbes' glory of the snow failure to naturalise?
Usually caused by excessively heavy or wet soil; improve drainage and plant at 3-5 times the bulb's own depth.
Why is my forbes' glory of the snow sparse flowering over time?
Can indicate over-crowding; lift and divide congested clumps every 3-4 years after the foliage dies back.
Why is my forbes' glory of the snow botrytis?
Grey mould on leaves in prolonged damp conditions; ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.