How to Grow Crocus Flowers in the UK: Complete Growing Guide

Growing crocus flowers in the UK is one of the easiest ways to bring beautiful colour into your garden during late winter and early spring.

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Crocuses are among the first flowers to appear as the weather begins to improve, producing cheerful blooms in shades of purple, yellow, white and blue-violet.

They look particularly attractive planted in lawns, garden borders, containers, rock gardens and beneath deciduous trees.

One of the biggest advantages of crocuses is that they can return year after year when planted in suitable conditions.

Some varieties gradually multiply, creating increasingly impressive displays.

Crocuses are also valuable for pollinating insects.

On mild, sunny days during late winter and early spring, their flowers can provide pollen and nectar for bees and other early-flying insects.

Here at Gardening with Ben, I enjoy planting spring bulbs and corms because they give us something wonderful to look forward to during the colder months.

After spending autumn planting hundreds of bulbs around the garden and allotment, there’s nothing quite like seeing those first colourful flowers emerge.

Crocuses are particularly useful because they take up very little space and can be planted among other flowers.

They’re also ideal for naturalising in grass, where they can create beautiful carpets of colour.

However, it’s important to understand that not all crocuses flower during spring.

Some species produce their flowers during autumn, including the famous saffron crocus.

The planting times and growing requirements can therefore vary depending on the type.

In this complete UK growing guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about growing crocus flowers successfully.

We’ll cover choosing varieties, planting times, planting depth, growing in pots, growing in lawns, watering, feeding, naturalising, caring for crocuses after flowering and dealing with common problems.

We’ll also explain why crocuses sometimes fail to flower and how to encourage beautiful displays year after year.

What Are Crocuses?

Crocuses belong to the genus Crocus, part of the Iridaceae family.

They’re small flowering plants that grow from underground corms.

Crocuses are native to parts of Europe, North Africa, the Middle East and Asia.

Their flowers are typically cup-shaped, opening during suitable daylight conditions and often closing during dull weather or at night.

Are Crocuses Bulbs?

Crocuses are commonly described as spring bulbs.

However, botanically they grow from corms rather than true bulbs.

A corm is a swollen underground stem that stores energy for future growth.

Are Crocuses Perennials?

Yes.

Crocuses are perennial plants.

They can return year after year in suitable conditions.

Do Crocuses Multiply?

Many crocuses produce replacement corms and additional small corms called cormels.

Over time, this can create larger groups of flowers.

Crocus Growing Facts

FeatureDetails
Botanical nameCrocus species and cultivars
Common nameCrocus
Plant familyIridaceae
Plant typeCormous perennial
Flower coloursPurple, yellow, white, blue-violet and striped
Flowering seasonAutumn or late winter to spring
Preferred positionFull sun or light shade, depending on species
SoilWell-drained
Typical height5–15cm
Spring crocus plantingSeptember–November
Autumn crocus plantingUsually late summer
Suitable for containersYes
Suitable for lawnsMany spring-flowering varieties
Pollinator friendlyYes
DifficultyEasy

Why Grow Crocuses in Your Garden?

Crocuses offer numerous advantages.

Early Spring Colour

Many varieties flower when few other plants are blooming.

Excellent for Bees

Their flowers can provide valuable early-season pollen and nectar.

Easy to Grow

Most crocuses require relatively little maintenance.

Suitable for Naturalising

Many varieties multiply and spread gradually.

Ideal for Small Gardens

Crocuses take up very little space.

Excellent for Containers

They can be grown in pots, troughs and window boxes.

Beautiful in Lawns

Crocuses can create colourful displays through grass.

Autumn-Flowering Varieties

Some species provide flowers during autumn.

Main Types of Crocus Flowers

There are several important groups of crocuses.

1. Spring-Flowering Crocuses

These are the most familiar types.

They usually flower from February through March, although some appear earlier or later.

2. Botanical Crocuses

These are generally smaller-flowered species and selections.

Many are particularly suitable for naturalising.

3. Large-Flowered Dutch Crocuses

These produce relatively large flowers.

They’re popular for lawns, borders and containers.

4. Autumn-Flowering Crocuses

These flower during autumn rather than spring.

5. Saffron Crocus

Crocus sativus produces purple autumn flowers with valuable red stigmas.

These are harvested and dried to produce saffron.

Best Crocus Varieties to Grow in the UK

Crocus tommasinianus

Commonly known as Tommasini’s crocus.

Produces delicate lilac-purple flowers.

Best for: Naturalising in lawns and beneath deciduous trees.

Crocus tommasinianus ‘Ruby Giant’

Produces rich purple flowers.

Best for: Naturalised spring displays.

Crocus chrysanthus ‘Cream Beauty’

Produces beautiful creamy-yellow flowers.

Best for: Early spring colour and containers.

Crocus chrysanthus ‘Blue Pearl’

Produces pale blue-lilac flowers.

Best for: Rock gardens and spring borders.

Crocus vernus ‘Flower Record’

Produces large purple flowers.

Best for: Lawns, borders and containers.

Crocus vernus ‘Jeanne d’Arc’

Produces elegant white flowers.

Best for: Spring borders and pots.

Crocus vernus ‘Pickwick’

Produces attractive purple-and-white striped flowers.

Best for: Decorative containers and mixed planting.

Crocus sativus

The saffron crocus.

Produces purple flowers during autumn.

Best for: Sunny, well-drained positions and growing saffron.

When Do Crocuses Flower in the UK?

Flowering depends on species, weather and location.

January

Some very early crocuses may begin flowering during mild winters.

February

An important flowering month for early spring varieties.

March

Many large-flowered crocuses produce their main displays.

April

Late flowers may continue in cooler gardens.

September

Some autumn-flowering species may begin blooming.

October

An important flowering month for autumn crocuses.

November

Some autumn varieties may continue flowering.

Important Advice

Choose a mixture of varieties to extend the overall flowering season.

When to Plant Crocus Bulbs in the UK

Although commonly called bulbs, crocuses grow from corms.

Spring-Flowering Crocuses

Plant during autumn, usually September through November.

Best Planting Month

September and October are excellent months for many spring-flowering varieties.

Can You Plant Crocuses in November?

Yes.

November planting is often successful if the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged.

Can You Plant Crocuses in December?

It may still be possible if the corms are healthy and soil conditions are suitable.

However, earlier autumn planting is generally preferable.

Autumn-Flowering Crocuses

These are usually planted during late summer, often August or September, depending on species.

Saffron Crocus

Plant saffron crocus corms during late summer, ideally before their autumn flowering period.

UK Crocus Growing Calendar

MonthGardening activity
JanuaryLook for early flowers and check containers
FebruaryEnjoy early spring crocuses
MarchMain flowering period for many varieties
AprilAllow foliage to die back naturally
MayAvoid cutting remaining green foliage
JuneMany spring crocuses are dormant
JulyPlan autumn planting and order corms
AugustPlant suitable autumn-flowering crocuses
SeptemberPlant spring crocuses and saffron corms if appropriate
OctoberContinue spring crocus planting and enjoy autumn flowers
NovemberFinish spring crocus planting
DecemberCheck drainage and protect vulnerable pots

Where Is the Best Place to Plant Crocuses?

Crocuses grow well in a range of garden positions.

Full Sun

Many varieties flower best in sunny positions.

Light Shade

Some species tolerate light shade.

Beneath Deciduous Trees

Crocuses can grow well beneath trees that allow sunlight through during winter and early spring.

Lawns

Many spring crocuses are excellent for naturalising in grass.

Garden Borders

Plant crocuses between perennials and other spring bulbs.

Rock Gardens

Their small size makes them ideal for rock gardens.

Containers

Crocuses are excellent for pots and troughs.

Best Soil for Growing Crocuses

Crocuses generally prefer well-drained soil.

Loamy Soil

Often ideal.

Sandy Soil

Usually suitable if plants receive adequate moisture during active growth.

Clay Soil

Can be suitable if drainage is improved.

Waterlogged Soil

Avoid planting where water sits for prolonged periods.

Organic Matter

Suitable compost can improve soil structure.

Important Advice

Poor drainage can cause corms to rot.

How Deep Should You Plant Crocus Bulbs?

Planting depth depends on corm size and species.

General Planting Depth

Many garden crocuses are planted approximately 7–10cm deep.

Small Botanical Crocuses

Smaller corms may be planted slightly shallower.

Large-Flowered Crocuses

Larger corms are commonly planted around 8–10cm deep.

Saffron Crocus

Saffron crocus corms are often planted approximately 10–15cm deep, depending on growing conditions.

Best Advice

Follow the supplier’s instructions for the specific species.

How Far Apart Should You Plant Crocuses?

Spacing depends on the desired display.

Naturalising in Lawns

Approximately 5–10cm apart is suitable for many spring varieties.

Borders

Plant small groups relatively close together.

Containers

Corms can be planted more closely, provided they aren’t touching.

Large Displays

Planting in groups creates a stronger visual impact.

Best Recommendation

For a natural appearance, avoid planting every corm in a perfectly straight line.

How to Plant Crocus Bulbs Step by Step

Step 1: Choose Healthy Corms

Select firm corms without obvious signs of rot.

Step 2: Choose a Suitable Position

Select somewhere with good drainage.

Step 3: Prepare the Soil

Remove weeds and loosen compacted ground.

Step 4: Dig Planting Holes

Make holes at the recommended depth.

Step 5: Position the Corms

Place corms with the growing point facing upwards where identifiable.

Step 6: Allow Suitable Spacing

Leave enough room for growth.

Step 7: Cover with Soil

Replace soil over the corms.

Step 8: Firm Gently

Avoid excessive compaction.

Step 9: Water if Necessary

Water if the soil is particularly dry.

Step 10: Mark the Position

Use labels where helpful.

How to Plant Crocuses in Pots

Crocuses are excellent container plants.

Step 1: Choose a Container

Select a pot with drainage holes.

Step 2: Add Compost

Use suitable peat-free compost with good drainage.

Step 3: Position the Corms

Arrange corms across the compost surface.

Step 4: Allow Spacing

Place corms close together without touching.

Step 5: Cover with Compost

Plant at the recommended depth.

Step 6: Water

Water after planting if necessary.

Step 7: Position Outdoors

Keep spring-flowering crocuses in suitable cool outdoor conditions.

Step 8: Monitor Moisture

Avoid waterlogging.

Step 9: Enjoy Flowering

Move containers to a prominent position when flowers appear.

Step 10: Allow Foliage to Die Back

Continue suitable care after flowering.

Can You Grow Crocuses in Window Boxes?

Yes.

Crocuses are excellent for window boxes.

Best Varieties

Compact botanical crocuses are particularly suitable.

Compost

Use well-drained compost.

Planting

Arrange corms in groups.

Watering

Avoid waterlogging.

Flowering

Place containers where the flowers can be enjoyed.

How to Plant Crocuses in a Lawn

Naturalising crocuses in grass creates beautiful spring displays.

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Lawn

Select an area with reasonable drainage.

Step 2: Choose Suitable Varieties

Crocus tommasinianus is particularly popular for naturalising.

Step 3: Scatter the Corms

Throw corms gently across the chosen area.

Step 4: Plant Where They Land

This creates a more natural appearance.

Step 5: Lift Small Sections of Turf

Use a suitable planting tool.

Step 6: Plant the Corms

Position them at the recommended depth.

Step 7: Replace Turf

Firm gently.

Step 8: Allow Natural Growth

Avoid disturbing the planted area.

Step 9: Enjoy Spring Flowers

Flowers should emerge during their normal season.

Step 10: Delay Mowing

Allow foliage to die back naturally.

When Can You Mow a Lawn with Crocuses?

This is particularly important.

Don’t Mow Green Crocus Leaves

The leaves produce energy that helps replenish the corms.

Wait Until Foliage Dies Back

Allow the leaves to yellow and wither naturally.

How Long Does This Take?

Often around six weeks after flowering, although conditions vary.

Best Advice

Delay mowing until the foliage has finished its natural growing cycle.

Do Crocuses Spread Naturally?

Yes.

Many crocuses multiply over time.

How Do They Multiply?

Corms produce replacement corms and smaller cormels.

Can Crocuses Self-Seed?

Some species can also spread through seed production.

Best Varieties for Naturalising

Crocus tommasinianus is particularly well known for naturalising.

How Long Does Naturalising Take?

It can take several years to create substantial displays.

Best Advice

Leave foliage undisturbed and avoid excessive soil disturbance.

How Many Crocus Bulbs Should You Plant Together?

Crocuses often look best planted in groups.

Small Containers

Groups of approximately 10–20 corms can create attractive displays, depending on pot size.

Garden Borders

Plant clusters of approximately 10–25 or more.

Lawns

Larger groups can create a more natural carpet of colour.

Large Gardens

Planting dozens or hundreds of crocuses can produce spectacular displays.

Best Advice

For natural-looking displays, vary group sizes and avoid rigid patterns.

How Often Should You Water Crocuses?

Crocuses generally need relatively little additional watering in UK gardens.

Newly Planted Corms

Water if the soil is very dry.

During Active Growth

Normal rainfall is often sufficient.

Container-Grown Crocuses

Check compost moisture regularly.

During Dormancy

Avoid keeping dormant corms constantly wet.

Important Advice

Waterlogging can cause corms to rot.

Do Crocuses Need Feeding?

Crocuses usually require little additional feeding.

Garden-Grown Crocuses

Plants growing in reasonably fertile soil often need no extra fertiliser.

Poor Soil

A modest application of suitable balanced fertiliser may help.

Container-Grown Crocuses

Potted plants may benefit from occasional feeding during active growth.

After Flowering

Allow leaves to replenish the corms naturally.

Avoid Excess Nitrogen

Heavy feeding isn’t necessary.

What to Do with Crocuses After Flowering

This is one of the most important parts of crocus care.

Step 1: Leave the Leaves

Don’t cut off green foliage.

Step 2: Allow Photosynthesis

Leaves produce energy that helps replenish the corm.

Step 3: Continue Suitable Watering

Avoid severe dryness while foliage remains actively growing, particularly in containers.

Step 4: Stop Feeding When Dormant

Don’t feed dormant corms.

Step 5: Allow Natural Dieback

Wait until leaves turn yellow and dry.

Step 6: Remove Dead Foliage if Desired

Once completely dead, foliage can be removed.

Step 7: Leave Corms in the Ground

Most hardy crocuses can remain planted.

Step 8: Avoid Waterlogging

Good drainage remains important.

Should You Deadhead Crocuses?

Deadheading is generally unnecessary.

Why?

Crocuses have relatively short flowering periods.

Can You Remove Faded Flowers?

Yes.

You can remove faded flowers for appearance.

Should You Remove Leaves?

No.

Leave green foliage intact.

Best Advice

Allow plants to complete their natural growing cycle.

Do Crocuses Come Back Every Year?

Yes.

Crocuses are perennial plants.

Why Do They Return?

Their underground corms store energy for future growth.

Will Every Corm Survive?

Not necessarily.

Some may be lost to pests, poor drainage or unsuitable conditions.

How to Encourage Reliable Flowering

Choose suitable varieties.

Plant at the correct depth.

Provide good drainage.

Allow foliage to die back naturally.

Why Are My Crocuses Not Flowering?

Several factors may be responsible.

1. Corms Planted Too Deeply or Shallowly

Incorrect planting depth can affect performance.

2. Poor Drainage

Waterlogged soil may cause corms to rot.

3. Leaves Cut Too Early

Removing green foliage prevents corms from replenishing their energy.

4. Insufficient Sunlight

Some varieties flower poorly in excessive shade.

5. Pest Damage

Rodents may eat corms.

6. Immature Corms

Small corms may need time to reach flowering size.

7. Unsuitable Growing Conditions

Soil and weather conditions can affect flowering.

Why Are My Crocuses Only Producing Leaves?

Crocuses sometimes produce foliage without flowers.

Possible Causes

  • Small or immature corms
  • Previous foliage removed too early
  • Insufficient light
  • Overcrowding
  • Poor growing conditions

What Should You Do?

Allow foliage to grow naturally.

Improve growing conditions where necessary.

Consider lifting and dividing overcrowded groups during dormancy.

Why Are My Crocus Flowers Not Opening?

Crocus flowers often close naturally.

Dull Weather

Flowers may remain closed during cloudy conditions.

Cold Temperatures

Low temperatures can reduce flower opening.

Night-Time

Flowers commonly close during darkness.

Is This Normal?

Yes.

Crocuses often open when sunlight and temperatures are suitable.

How to Stop Squirrels Eating Crocus Bulbs

Squirrels and other rodents may dig up or eat crocus corms.

Use Suitable Planting Depth

Plant corms at the recommended depth.

Cover Newly Planted Areas

Temporary protective mesh can help prevent digging.

Use Wire Mesh Baskets

Suitable mesh baskets can provide additional protection.

Plant in Containers

Containers may be easier to protect.

Avoid Leaving Corms Exposed

Clear away discarded corm skins and planting debris.

Important Advice

Remove temporary surface protection before it interferes with emerging shoots.

Do Mice Eat Crocus Bulbs?

Yes.

Mice and other rodents may eat crocus corms.

Signs of Damage

Corms disappear.

Small holes appear in the soil.

Plants fail to emerge.

Prevention

Use suitable protective mesh where necessary.

Avoid leaving corms exposed.

Plant in protected containers if problems are severe.

Common Crocus Pests and Diseases

Squirrels

May dig up corms.

Mice

May eat corms.

Slugs and Snails

May damage emerging flowers or leaves.

Corm Rot

Poor drainage can cause rotting.

Fungal Diseases

Some fungal problems may affect corms and foliage.

Poor Flowering

Unsuitable growing conditions can reduce flowers.

Prevention

Choose healthy corms, plant correctly and maintain good drainage.

How to Divide Crocus Corms

Established groups may become crowded.

Best Time

Lift corms during dormancy, after foliage has died back.

Step 1: Identify the Clump

Mark the position before foliage disappears.

Step 2: Lift Carefully

Use a garden fork or hand tool.

Step 3: Remove Excess Soil

Gently expose the corms.

Step 4: Separate Cormels

Carefully divide small corms from the main group.

Step 5: Inspect for Damage

Discard rotten or badly damaged corms.

Step 6: Replant

Plant at the appropriate depth and spacing.

Step 7: Allow Establishment

Young cormels may take time to reach flowering size.

Can You Grow Crocuses from Seed?

Yes.

Some crocus species can be grown from seed.

How to Sow

  1. Collect or purchase suitable seeds.
  2. Prepare pots with well-drained seed compost.
  3. Sow according to species-specific instructions.
  4. Provide suitable seasonal temperatures.
  5. Maintain appropriate moisture.
  6. Allow seedlings to develop.
  7. Grow young corms on carefully.

How Long Until Flowering?

Seed-grown crocuses may take several years to reach flowering size.

Best Advice

Planting corms is generally the quickest way to enjoy flowers.

How to Grow Saffron Crocus in the UK

Saffron crocus is an autumn-flowering species.

Its botanical name is Crocus sativus.

When to Plant Saffron Crocus

Usually during late summer.

Best Position

Choose a sunny, sheltered position.

Soil

Well-drained soil is essential.

Planting Depth

Approximately 10–15cm is commonly suitable, following supplier instructions.

Flowering

Flowers usually appear during autumn.

Harvesting Saffron

Each flower produces three red stigmas.

These are carefully harvested and dried to produce saffron.

Important Safety Advice

Only harvest saffron from correctly identified Crocus sativus plants.

Never confuse saffron crocus with autumn-flowering plants commonly called autumn crocus or meadow saffron, particularly Colchicum autumnale, which is highly poisonous.

Are Crocuses Good for Bees?

Yes.

Spring-flowering crocuses can be valuable to early pollinating insects.

Why Are They Useful?

They provide pollen and nectar during late winter and early spring.

Bumblebees

Early-emerging bumblebee queens may visit crocus flowers during mild weather.

Honeybees

Honeybees may visit during suitable temperatures.

Solitary Bees

Some early-flying solitary bees may also use crocuses.

Best Advice

Plant crocuses in sunny groups and combine them with other early-flowering plants.

Best Companion Plants for Crocuses

Crocuses combine beautifully with many spring flowers.

Snowdrops

Snowdrops provide delicate white flowers.

Daffodils

Miniature daffodils create cheerful combinations.

Iris reticulata

Dwarf irises provide colourful early flowers.

Hellebores

Hellebores create attractive winter and spring displays.

Cyclamen coum

Winter-flowering cyclamen complement early crocuses.

Primroses

Primroses provide additional spring colour.

Muscari

Grape hyacinths create beautiful blue displays.

Tulips

Later tulips extend the flowering season.

Can You Grow Crocuses on an Allotment?

Yes.

Crocuses are excellent for ornamental areas of an allotment.

Suitable Locations

  • Around sheds
  • Permanent flower borders
  • Pathway edges
  • Wildlife areas
  • Beneath deciduous shrubs
  • Containers
  • Small grassed areas

Benefits

Crocuses provide early colour and resources for pollinating insects.

Important Consideration

Avoid planting them where the soil is regularly dug over.

Best Advice

Choose a permanent position where corms can remain undisturbed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Growing Crocuses

Are Crocuses Easy to Grow in the UK?

Yes. Most garden crocuses are relatively easy to grow in well-drained soil.

Are Crocuses Bulbs?

They’re commonly called bulbs, but botanically they grow from corms.

Are Crocuses Perennials?

Yes.

Do Crocuses Come Back Every Year?

Yes, in suitable conditions.

When Should You Plant Crocus Bulbs?

Spring-flowering crocuses are usually planted during autumn.

Can You Plant Crocuses in October?

Yes. October is an excellent month.

Can You Plant Crocuses in November?

Yes, if the soil isn’t frozen or waterlogged.

Can You Plant Crocuses in December?

Sometimes, although earlier autumn planting is preferable.

When Should You Plant Autumn-Flowering Crocuses?

Usually during late summer.

How Deep Should You Plant Crocuses?

Many garden crocuses are planted approximately 7–10cm deep.

How Far Apart Should You Plant Crocuses?

Approximately 5–10cm is suitable for many varieties.

Do Crocuses Need Full Sun?

Many prefer full sun, although some tolerate light shade.

Can Crocuses Grow in Shade?

Some varieties tolerate light shade, particularly beneath deciduous trees.

What Soil Do Crocuses Prefer?

Well-drained soil.

Can Crocuses Grow in Clay Soil?

Yes, if drainage is adequate.

Can You Grow Crocuses in Pots?

Yes.

Can You Grow Crocuses in Window Boxes?

Yes.

Can You Grow Crocuses in Lawns?

Yes. Many spring-flowering varieties are excellent for naturalising.

When Can You Mow Crocuses in a Lawn?

After the foliage has yellowed and died back naturally.

Do Crocuses Spread?

Many varieties gradually multiply.

How Many Crocuses Should You Plant Together?

Groups of 10–25 or more often create attractive displays.

How Often Should You Water Crocuses?

Normal rainfall is often sufficient for garden-grown plants.

Do Crocuses Need Feeding?

Usually very little additional fertiliser.

Should You Deadhead Crocuses?

It’s generally unnecessary.

Should You Cut Crocus Leaves After Flowering?

No. Allow foliage to die back naturally.

Why Are My Crocuses Not Flowering?

Poor drainage, insufficient light, immature corms or early foliage removal may be responsible.

Why Are My Crocuses Only Producing Leaves?

Small corms, overcrowding or poor growing conditions may be responsible.

Why Do Crocus Flowers Close?

They often close during cold, dull weather and at night.

Do Squirrels Eat Crocus Bulbs?

Yes.

Do Mice Eat Crocus Bulbs?

Yes.

How Do You Protect Crocus Corms?

Use suitable planting depth, protective mesh or containers.

Can You Divide Crocus Corms?

Yes. Divide established clumps during dormancy.

Can You Grow Crocuses from Seed?

Yes, although flowering may take several years.

When Do Crocuses Flower?

Spring-flowering varieties usually bloom during late winter and early spring.

Are There Autumn-Flowering Crocuses?

Yes.

Can You Grow Saffron Crocus in the UK?

Yes, in suitable sunny, well-drained conditions.

Are Crocuses Good for Bees?

Yes. Early flowers can provide valuable pollen and nectar.

Can You Grow Crocuses on an Allotment?

Yes. They’re excellent for permanent flower borders and wildlife areas.

Final Thoughts: Growing Crocus Flowers Successfully in the UK

Growing crocus flowers is a wonderful way to bring colour into your garden or allotment when many other plants are still dormant.

Their cheerful flowers are among the first signs that spring is approaching.

With so many varieties available, you can enjoy crocuses in shades of purple, yellow, white and blue-violet.

For the best results, choose healthy corms and plant them in well-drained soil.

Spring-flowering crocuses are generally planted during autumn, while autumn-flowering varieties are usually planted during late summer.

Plant corms at the correct depth and allow enough space for them to multiply.

One of the most important things to remember is to leave the foliage standing after flowering.

The leaves help replenish the corms, allowing plants to return in future years.

Crocuses are particularly effective when planted in groups, whether in lawns, borders, containers or beneath deciduous trees.

And if you’re looking to encourage wildlife into your garden, spring crocuses are an excellent choice.

Their early flowers can provide valuable resources for bees emerging during mild weather.

Whether you’re planting a handful of corms in a patio pot or hundreds across your allotment, crocuses are a fantastic investment in future spring colour.

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