Snowdrops mean the end of winter and the beginning of spring for many plant lovers and gardeners. But even though they are beautiful and would make a perfect bouquet in a vase: they are protected!
Why are snowdrops protected?
Snowdrops are protected in Germany because their wild populations are small. Therefore, they must not be collected, demolished or dug up. Instead, you can buy them, receive them as gifts or propagate them yourself to protect the population.
An early bloomer under nature protection
There are around 20 species of snowdrops spread around the world. This early bloomer originally comes from southeastern Europe and western Asia. Due to the low population, it is protected in Germany, as is the Märzenbecher, for example.
In Germany you can mainly find the small snowdrop in its wild form. However, there is no real natural location. Therefore it should be protected in this country. But the snowdrop is not only respected in this country. There are strict import regulations for snowdrops in Europe that breeders and garden retailers must adhere to.
Do not collect or tear down snowdrops
No matter how beautiful they are, snowdrops must not be collected, torn down or dug up. Anyone caught doing this will face heavy fines. Many snowdrop lovers would like to collect them in the forest, on the meadow or elsewhere, for example for a bouquet in a vase. It would be easier to plant the snowdrops yourself
Buy or give snowdrops instead
In this world nothing is given for free? Are you kidding me? Are you serious when you say that. Many gardeners have planted snowdrops in their garden and feel overwhelmed by the growing number. They would be happy to dig up a few plants for you and give them to you.
Spring is the time to plant snowdrops. Alternatively, you can buy the plants at a garden center or hardware store (€24.00 on Amazon). Onions are usually available in stores in autumn.
Increase the number of plants
If you want to do something good for nature, you should multiply snowdrops:
- Sowing seeds in a box outside the apartment (cold germination)
- Dig up snowdrops in spring when they are blooming and separate the breeding bulbs from the main bulb
- Snowdrops also grow in pots, for example on the balcony
- important: humus-rich, moist soil and partially shaded to shady location
Tips & Tricks
Snowdrops are poisonous. Educate your children about this. As a result, they will stay away from the snowdrops and the populations will be better preserved.
