March is the prime window for moving snowdrops “in the green,” a technique that remains the most reliable method for establishing these winter gems in your garden. Unlike many other bulbs that are planted while dormant and dry in autumn, snowdrops have a high failure rate when kept out of the soil for long periods. Moving them “in the green” simply means lifting and replanting them while they are in active growth—ideally just as the flowers begin to fade but while the foliage is still lush and vibrant.

The timing for this process is perfect throughout March. One of the primary advantages of working now is visibility; because the plants are above ground, you can see exactly where the clumps are located, allowing you to space them naturally and avoid accidentally slicing through hidden bulbs with a spade. Since the root system is already active, these plants settle into their new homes far more quickly and successfully than dry, store-bought bulbs.

To begin, use a hand fork to gently lift a congested clump, digging deep enough to ensure you don’t damage the root plate. Once lifted, carefully tease the bulbs apart by hand. You should aim to replant them in small groups of three to five to create an immediate, natural-looking impact. It is vital to replant them immediately at the same depth they were previously growing; you can easily identify this by the “bleach line”, where the white underground stem turns green. Planting them too shallow is a common mistake that often leads to the bulbs drying out.

Select a planting spot that mimics a woodland habitat, favouring dappled shade and moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Once they are in the ground, gently firm the soil to remove air pockets and water them in well. Don’t be alarmed as the leaves eventually yellow and die back; this is a natural part of the cycle as the bulb stores energy for next year’s display.