This small cluster of Galanthus is the first thing to bloom in my yard. There is a dusting of these pendulous white bell-shaped flowers scattered about the sunniest areas of my lawn. Galanthus, commonly called snowdrops, is derived from the Greek words, gala meaning 'milk' and anthos meaning 'flower'. What an appropriate name! This cute little bulb is in the amaryllis family. A single flower is born on the end of each stalk with 2 to 3 leaves growing from its base to accompany it. Snowdrops are most happy when planted in rich soil and partial shade. If left undisturbed, these bulbs will multiply and form colonies. Other early flowering bulbs to use in combination with Galanthus are Crocus, Scilla, Eranthis, and Iris reticulata. They all make a nice addition to rock gardens and are great for naturalizing.

Naturalizing, what does that really mean anyway? It refers to a style or method of landscaping. The placement of plants is informal and random, giving the illusion that it was created by nature not planted by man. Many of the spring flowering bulbs can be used for naturalizing.

When things start popping up in the garden, you might want to mark the places you would like to have flowering bulbs next spring. It is truly wonderful to see these plants emerge from the ground at a time when you are worn ragged from the winter and desperate for springtime to arrive. It is well worth the effort!