In the green

This is a term used to describe bulbs which have green growth on them (ie leaves), be it before, during or after flowering. It is most commonly used in relation to transplanting or propagating bulbs, particularly those which perform poorly if they’re dried out and stored before being re-planted. Bulbs which are better planted in the green include Galanthus (snowdrops), Leucojum (snowflakes), Eranthis (winter aconites), Anemone nemorosa (wood anemones) and hardy cyclamen. Find out more about planting bulbs.

An alternative meaning of ‘in the green’ relates to a fruit or seed which is unripe (often, literally, green coloured) or not ready to fall. Collecting seeds in the green is sometimes done to prevent seed dormancy setting in.