Troubleshooting
Green Snowdrop problems — and how to fix them
Green Snowdrop (Galanthus woronowii) 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.
Narcissus fly
Large narcissus bulb fly larvae hollow out bulbs. Improve drainage and firm the soil over dormant bulbs to discourage egg-laying.
Grey mould (Botrytis galanthina)
A snowdrop-specific Botrytis strain can cause stem collapse and leaf scorch. Remove affected material and avoid planting too densely.
Failure to naturalise
Bulbs planted dry often establish poorly. Plant 'in the green' (with leaves still attached shortly after flowering) for the best establishment results.
Overcrowding
Dense clumps eventually lose vigour and flower less freely. Lift, divide, and replant immediately every 3–5 years while in active growth.
Squirrel damage
Squirrels will dig up newly planted bulbs. Cover with chicken wire pegged down for the first autumn.
Prevent green snowdrop problems before they start
Most green snowdrop issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Green Snowdrop problems — FAQ
Why is my green snowdrop narcissus fly?
Large narcissus bulb fly larvae hollow out bulbs. Improve drainage and firm the soil over dormant bulbs to discourage egg-laying.
Why is my green snowdrop grey mould (botrytis galanthina)?
A snowdrop-specific Botrytis strain can cause stem collapse and leaf scorch. Remove affected material and avoid planting too densely.
Why is my green snowdrop failure to naturalise?
Bulbs planted dry often establish poorly. Plant 'in the green' (with leaves still attached shortly after flowering) for the best establishment results.
Why is my green snowdrop overcrowding?
Dense clumps eventually lose vigour and flower less freely. Lift, divide, and replant immediately every 3–5 years while in active growth.
Why is my green snowdrop squirrel damage?
Squirrels will dig up newly planted bulbs. Cover with chicken wire pegged down for the first autumn.