For a welcome assurance that the brighter days of spring are on their way and to herald the end of winter, look no further than snowdrops (Galanthus). Possibly one of the most popular of all commercially cultivated bulbous plants, the genus is rather varied in height, flower size, shape, and even coloring. This narrow-leafed snowdrop, with its delicate milk-white green tipped hanging flowers, is very popular in North America, the British Isles, and northern France. Its makes for an excellent deciduous woodland plant and is also commonly know as the "flower of hope. "Galanthus nivalis are lovely, single blossoms that push out of the ground often before the snow has gone. Critter resistant and a good naturalizer, given good conditions. To prevent the bulbs from drying out, buy them early in the season and plant them as soon as possible. Planted in moist soil, they will multiply into drifts and provide plenty of plants to share with fellow gardeners. Do not let the soil dry out. Mulch lightly in winter.