Snowdrops and summer heat/drought
Paul T. (Wed, 22 Dec 2010 22:57:17 PST)

Jane et al,

Galanthus gracilis for me does best with hot and relatively dry
summers. I for years grew some in a pot in full summer sun, because
I kept forgetting they were there (they did get relatively regular
watering in their pot, but they definitely were not kept permanently
damp, just not dessicated!). One year I decided to put some into the
ground, and repotted the rest of them into a large pot and put it in
a more traditional place for Galanthus and awaited a spectacular
display...... every single one in the large pot rotted!! Thankfully
I still had a couple in the ground which did OK. They were planted
under maples where they were relatively dry in summer, but they never
did flower very well. I've since lifted some of those back out into
pots and put them back in the original area where they get the summer
heat and they have multiplied very well and are starting back into
proper flowering. I am not sure I could give any other Galanthus the
same treatment and have them thrive like gracilis does. It works for
me anyway! <grin>

All the best for the Silly Season everyone. I hope it brings you all
what you are hoping for. Snow on the mountains around us here last
week, and 30'C or so today. Go figure!! LOL

Cheers.

Paul T.
Canberra, Australia - USDA Zone Equivalent approx. 8/9

Growing an eclectic collection of plants from all over the world
including Aroids, Crocus, Cyclamen, Erythroniums, Fritillarias,
Galanthus, Irises, Trilliums (to name but a few) and just about
anything else that doesn't move!!