Greetings, fellow plant enthusiasts. It is I, the snowdrop bulb, speaking on behalf of my dormant kin. To ensure we awaken with vigor and grace when the time for planting arrives, you must provide us with the correct conditions for our summer slumber. Here is what we require.
First, understand our nature. We are not like tender summer bulbs such as dahlias or gladioli. We are hardy souls, evolved to endure cold winters. Our true dormancy is brief, occurring after our foliage dies back in late spring. We then enter a period of rest, but our internal clocks are already counting down to autumn. The most critical mistake is to store us in a manner that dries us out completely or robs us of the seasonal cues we need. We are living libraries of next spring's bloom, and we must be kept viable.
Our needs are simple but non-negotiable. We demand a cool, dark, and well-ventilated environment. Think of the conditions under the cool soil, beneath a canopy of shrubs.
Temperature: We prefer a consistent temperature between 60-68°F (15-20°C). Avoid extreme heat, which forces us to deplete our energy reserves, and avoid freezing, which can damage our cells. A garage, cool basement, or a shaded garden shed is often perfect.
Humidity & Airflow: This is a delicate balance. We must not be allowed to dry out and become shriveled, nor can we be kept damp, which invites mold and rot. The air around us must have some moisture but must also move freely to prevent stagnation. Please, do not seal us in an airtight plastic bag; this is a death sentence. A mesh bag, a paper bag, or a shallow wooden or cardboard box is ideal.
How you handle us after lifting us from our summer bed is crucial. Gently brush off any loose, dry soil. Do not wash us with water, as this adds unwanted moisture and can lead to rot. Inspect each of us carefully. Any bulb that feels soft, shows signs of rot, or has obvious damage must be separated and discarded. We do not wish to infect our healthy neighbors. A light dusting of a fungicidal powder can be a helpful preventative measure, but it is not always necessary if we are sound and the storage conditions are correct.
Choose a container that respects our need for breathability. As mentioned, mesh or paper bags are excellent choices as they allow air to circulate. Alternatively, you may place us in a single layer in a shallow cardboard box or a wooden tray. If you must use a plastic container, ensure it is perforated with many holes for ventilation. Line the container with a slightly moist (not wet) material like peat moss, vermiculite, or sawdust. This medium will help maintain a stable, slight humidity level around us, preventing desiccation. Place us in the container so we are not touching each other.
Our storage is not a "set it and forget it" affair. You must check on us every few weeks. Look for any signs of mold, which indicates excessive moisture and poor air circulation. Feel for any bulbs that have become soft or begun to rot; these must be removed immediately. If we appear to be shriveling, the storage environment is too dry, and the medium may need a very slight misting of water. Our goal is to remain plump and firm until the cooling soils of autumn call us back to the earth.
