Crocus is a small flower with a big message – it tells us that winter is almost over. One of the first flowers to bloom in late winter, the colorful crocus will push its way up through snow to deliver its message.
This spring time perennial is easy to plant and grow with these tips. Get started this fall (autumn) for a colorful bloom display next year.
When To Plant
Crocus bulbs (called corms) should be planted in the fall before the ground freezes.
The ideal time for planting is 6 weeks before the last frost of the year. Soil needs to be cool for the corms, at or below 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degree Celsius).
Crocus must go through a period of cold in order for them to produce blooms. This makes the plant naturally tolerant of snow, ice and frost that may occur in early spring after blooms appear.
Planting Location
Crocus will grow in most any light condition, except dense shade. The plant will need a little sunlight each day to grow and will tolerate full sun.
The soil must drain well so it does not stay consistently soggy as this will cause the corms to rot.
Amend soil with plenty of compost prior to planting crocus to ensure soil will drain well and have needed nutrients to supply energy to the crocus corms during the dormant stage.
How To Plant
Work the soil to the depth of 10 inches (25 cm) so it will be loose and provide good drainage. Place crocus corms 4 inches (10 cm) deep into the prepared soil with the pointy end facing upwards.
Water well. Cover with a compost and soil mixture and gently pat soil down.
You may be interested in my other post, The different types of Garden Fertilizer.
Plant Size
Crocus are small plants, ranging in height from 2-5 inches (5-13 cm) depending on variety planted and will be about 3 inches (7 cm) wide. Plant corms in clusters for biggest visual impact.
These small flowers can actually be planted in your lawn. Their life cycle will be complete by the time the grass is tall enough to mow.
Bloom Time
Crocus blooms will appear from late winter until late spring. The exact bloom time will depend on the variety planted. Blooms will last 3-5 weeks.
Bloom colors include: white, purple, pink, red, orange, yellow, and candy stripe.
Plant Once and Forget Them
Crocus are perennials that will naturalize and return for many years. They require no maintenance after planting, not even watering (aside from the initial watering at planting time) because they are drought tolerant.
They are also deer, rabbit and squirrel resistant and are rarely bothered by any type of pest or disease.
Plant facts
| Genus | Crocus |
| Light | full sun, part sun |
| Soil type | chalk, clay, loam, sand |
| Soil drainage | well drained |
| Height x Width | 3~4 x 1~2 inches (7~10 x 2~5 cm) |
| Flowering seasons | Early Spring, Winter |
| Life span | perennial |
| Plant hardiness zones | 3 – 8 |
How to Prepare Perennials for Fall and Winter
