NOW is the time to split over-crowded clumps of snowdrops.

Unlike most other spring bulbs which are lifted and divided in summer when the leaves have died back, snowdrops are best attended to while "in-the-green", that is while the leaves are still fresh and the flowers have just finished. Snowdrops hate having their roots disturbed, but dividing them in spring allows their roots to recover and gives the leaves time to feed the bulb before they become dormant later in summer.

Firstly, dig around the clump with a spade, carefully loosening the soil and lifting the bulbs from the ground. Remove excess soil and separate individual bulbs, disturbing the roots as little as possible. Fork over the soil in the area they are to be replanted and put the bulbs back into the earth straight away, firming the soil to get rid of any air pockets. Loosen the surface of the soil to allow moisture to soak in, then water well. Keep an eye on the plants over the next few months and water in dry spells until the foliage dies back.

Updated: 09:18 Saturday, March 23, 2002