Crocus corms

Spring-flowering crocus corms are best planted in autumn, usually from September to November. Planting at this time allows them to establish before their flowers emerge in late winter or spring. Autumn-flowering crocuses have a different schedule and are generally planted in late summer or early September. Plant crocuses promptly after receiving them rather than storing them for long periods.

Plant crocus corms in well-drained soil with the growing point facing upwards. They look particularly effective when planted in informal groups or drifts rather than individually in straight lines. Crocuses can be grown in borders, beneath deciduous trees, through lawns or in containers, making them one of the most versatile spring-flowering bulbs for UK gardens.

Most spring-flowering crocuses should be planted around 7–10cm deep. Larger Dutch crocuses planted in lawns can go a little deeper, at around 12cm. Planting at a good depth helps protect the bulbs from drying out and allows them to establish successfully. In containers, crocuses can usually be planted around 7–12cm deep.

Most crocuses flower in the UK from late winter into early spring, often providing some of the first colour of the gardening year. Exact timing varies by variety and weather conditions. There are also autumn-flowering crocuses, including the saffron crocus, which produce their flowers later in the year.

Yes. Crocuses are hardy perennials and can return year after year when grown in suitable conditions. Many varieties gradually produce additional corms and can develop into larger clumps over time. Some crocuses, particularly Crocus tommasinianus, are excellent for naturalising and can create increasingly generous displays when left undisturbed.

Yes, crocuses are excellent for pots and containers. Their compact size makes them particularly useful for smaller containers or as the upper layer of a larger bulb display. Use a free-draining peat-free compost and make sure the pot has drainage holes. Crocuses can be planted fairly close together in containers to create a fuller display when they flower.

Yes. Crocuses are particularly well suited to naturalising in lawns and areas of grass. Plant the corms in informal groups for a natural effect rather than in regular rows. After flowering, allow the foliage to remain until it has died back naturally before mowing the area, giving the bulbs time to replenish themselves for the following year. Larger Dutch crocuses and smaller species such as Crocus tommasinianus are both well suited to naturalised displays.

After crocuses have finished flowering, leave their foliage in place until it has yellowed and died back naturally. The leaves continue to gather energy for the following year's growth while they remain green. Established crocuses can usually be left undisturbed in borders, lawns and containers, where suitable varieties can gradually multiply and create larger displays.

Squirrels can dig up and eat crocus bulbs, especially soon after planting. Planting crocuses at the recommended depth and firming the soil after planting can make them less accessible. In areas where squirrels are persistent, freshly planted bulbs can also be protected with securely fixed wire mesh until they have become established.