Snowdrops

Flower of the month, January

The snowdrops are out earlier than usual this year - they are traditionally known for signalling that spring is on her way. Perhaps they’ve been brought out the by the warmer December weather but either way, the delicate white flowers with green stems are absolutely stunning in this sunny, cold, icy/snowy weather.

Snowdrops can be found thriving in pastures, woods, gardens and orchards across the UK from January to early March. You may be lucky enough to find some in your garden or on the verges; or wander amongst the National Trust woods or estates to see snowdrops en masse. You may not wish to disturb them (and definitely not for touching in the national trust areas) but if they’re in abundance in your own garden, it’s ok to dig up a clump to enjoy on your kitchen table and then perhaps replant afterwards…

There is something so pure and delicate, almost fairy-like about snowdrops and tucked into a mossy duvet in a bowl, they are very magical to add to tables around the home in a month when we’re home a lot. You can use shallow vases of bowls of any description. Cut the stems to the lengths you like (I like a mix of heights) and then add a layer of moss. I find my moss from the garden and tops of stone walls at this time of year but you can also buy it. Sometimes I add a single candle into the bowl arrangement to light as the day fades.

Or try this miniature mindful arrangement with snowdrops and snakeshead fritillary in your smallest sugar bowl or something similar (I have used an antique Japanese ink pot I found on my travels).

Or you could make a snowdrop kokedama - I don’t have a video of one (I will make one soon!) but it’s all about creating a mossy ball with snowdrops at the top and hanging it like a beautiful new year disco ball of pure happiness.