In most cases they are the first bulb flowers to sprout and bloom in spring. Snowdrops are magical, delicate and seem as if they can be left to their own devices. But is that actually the case or do you need fertilizer to get off to a good start?
Is fertilizing snowdrops necessary?
Should snowdrops be fertilized? Outdoors, snowdrops do not need any additional fertilizer as they obtain sufficient nutrients from the soil. For snowdrops in pots, it is recommended to fertilize them during flowering and afterwards with organic fertilizers such as compost, horse manure, chicken manure or horn shavings.
Fertilizer harms snowdrops
Snowdrops are extremely easy to care for. This also applies to fertilizing. What other plants in their immediate vicinity receive in terms of fertilizer is enough for them. They pull everything they need from the ground to grow. Therefore, it is not necessary to fertilize snowdrops.
On the contrary: Anyone who fertilizes snowdrops outdoors, for example in a perennial bed or on a garden fence, can be disappointed. The snowdrops often then develop large, strong leaves, but no flowers. The flower may fail completely.
Snowdrops in pots: fertilizing is recommended
But there is an exception. These are snowdrops in pots, for example on the balcony or terrace. The soil they have available usually doesn't last long when it comes to nutrients.
Fertilize snowdrops in the pot twice
In pots, snowdrops should be fertilized twice during their short growing season. The first time in their prime and the second time shortly after. The result: the flowers last longer. In addition, the fertilizer applications - especially the second fertilizer application - benefit the onion. It urgently needs the nutrients for flowering in the coming season.
Which fertilizers are suitable for snowdrops
You should use an organic fertilizer for snowdrops. Snowdrops in pots receive a liquid fertilizer or slow-release fertilizer using sticks. Suitable organic fertilizers for snowdrops outdoors include:
- Compost
- Horse manure, chicken manure
- Horn shavings
Tips & Tricks
Older snowdrops that have been outdoors for a few years and have formed large clumps can be easily fertilized if you really want to. They are grateful for this portion of nutrients.
