Learn about Crocus

Crocus are available in three main groups (you can of course find a selection of these on the site) that is

1) Autumn flowering crocus such as crocus sativus and speciosus
2) Tall Dutch crocus (often those seen in council beds and roundabouts)
3) Specie dwarf crocus. 

Specie crocus are often the first signs that spring has arrived flowering in January/February with snowdrops. The taller varieties of crocus bulbs flower a little later in February/March and the Autumn flowering varieties as you would expect will flower in September/October. As with many bulb types crocus are available in a large array of colours and colour combinations. Some varieties are also very suited to growing indoors. 

Cultivation 
Prepare the soil to planting to a depth of 15cm (6”) adding in some well rotted manure or compost if possible. On heavier soils, add a couple of handfuls of grit under the crocus before planting to improve drainage. Plant the bulbs 10cm deep and 8 to 10cm apart. The specie and tall crocus bulbs can be planted from August through to November and the Autumn flowering crocus should be planted in August.

Plant bulbs in a sunny or partially shaded location. Planting in partial shade will ensure a longer flowering period. Crocus are ideal for naturalising in lawns or other similar areas and will increase in number very quickly. 

Flowering
Bulbs may need to be watered if the soil becomes very dry during the growing period (when first signs of growth are seen) but in general, the wet months of winter provide them with plenty of moisture. After the crocus has flowered, ensure that you add a proprietary fertiliser, which will provide the bulbs with the nutrients that they need for next years growth. As with daffodils it is essential at this point that you do not remove the leaves until they become brown, shrivelled, and are easily removed without disturbing the bulb. 

Crocus in pots 
The best varieties for pot growing are the taller Dutch varieties although the specie crocus will also grow well in pots. When growing in pots ensure that you put plenty of crocks in the bottom of the pot to provide good drainage. Bulbs can of course be planted touching each other if required. If after flowering the crocus are left in the containers for the following year, please ensure they are protected from any frost. 

Over wintering
Crocus as noted earlier are very good at naturalising so do not need to be lifted each year. They will benefit from a good layer of mulch over the winter months to protect against severe frost.

Tips 
Crocus increase in number very quickly to produce a rich display. If they start to look congested the crocus corms should be lifted, divided and replanted.

Crocus are a good source of food for rabbits, mice, squirrels and even birds will lift out the corms. If you think this will be a problem cover with netting or similar.

Buy Crocus here