Crocus Growing Guide

Crocus sativus

Crocus

Crop Rotation Group

Miscellaneous ●

Soil

Average garden soil with excellent drainage.

Position

Full sun in late winter, partial shade in summer.

Frost tolerant

Excellent. Most crocuses are hardy to -32C (-25F).

Feeding

Topdress with rich compost in spring, when new growth appears. When given too much fertiliser, crocuses may form thick stands that do not bloom well.

Companions

Crocuses are wonderful little bulbs to naturalise in grass beneath deciduous trees, or to plant in groups near entryways. Scatter them in small groups along a woodland edge. Crocuses combine well with scillas and early-blooming daffodils.

Spacing

Single Plants: 10cm (3") each way (minimum)
Rows: 10cm (3") with 10cm (3") row gap (minimum)

Sow and Plant

Set out dormant bulbs from late summer to early winter, planting them 3in (8cm) deep. Spacing can be as close as 5cm(2in) between crocus bulbs, which look best when planted in groups of seven or more.
Our Garden Planner can produce a personalized calendar of when to sow, plant and harvest for your area.

Notes

Crocuses are considered harbingers of spring. The flowers close at night and on rainy days.

Harvesting

Seeds can be gathered and re-sown in early summer. Established clumps can be dug and moved in the autumn, but are best left undisturbed.

Troubleshooting

Crocuses needs a period of winter chilling, and will not persist long in warmer areas. Varieties classified as C. tommasinianus are not tempting to deer.

Planting and Harvesting Calendar

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Pests which Affect Crocus