breaking up a clump weakens plants?

[Diane Whitehead]

Last year I broke up a potted clump of what I think is Spindlestone Surprise and planted the bulbs separately
under a spruce.

This year they emerged very late and have been just sitting not doing much.  Is this to be expected?  Anything I should do?

Here is a photo.  Of course, the elwesii is always bigger. 

[Tristan_He]

Were they in growth when you planted them out Diane?

There will be a long-term gain because the bulbs have more space, but there can be a bit of a setback due to disturbance. Maybe the yellow 'drops are a bit slower to re-establish?

[Alan_b]

I think you should move them.  Snowdrops do not grow well under conifers; I imagine because they get too dry in summer.   

[Brian Ellis]

Personally I would give them a slow release feed, mark their positions and move them when the foliage has died down, before the new root growth (which is normally late June onwards).  That way you are not in danger of breaking any of the simple roots which will never recover.

[Diane Whitehead]

Thanks for the advice.  I will nourish them, then find them a better home, or maybe two homes.

[alant]

Diane

I have never had any trouble with splitting up this snowdrop.  If I lift them 'in the green' I carefully wash off the soil so I don't damage any roots.  Unlike some snowdrops, Spindleston Surprise does likes a bit of leaf mould mixed into the soil.