Crocus, Early Flowers

Crocus are long lasting garden bulbs.

With proper care crocus will bloom early, or later, last longer and provide a wide variety of color throughout your garden or along your pathways.

Crocus are among the earliest bulbs to flower with some blooms occurring as early as late January.

For early blooms…

For early flowers, plant them in an area sheltered from wind. For later flowers, plant them in an exposed area. Crocus grow 4 - 5 inches from corns planted in November and December with blooms occurring mainly in March.

They are best planted in the sun, however, they will grow in partially shaded areas. Crocus are not finicky as to soil.

They will last several years if planted 2 - 3 inches apart in a well-drained, humus-like soil. They should be planted in groups of 20 -25 to be effective since they are mainly viewed from close-up.

Rock gardens, borders and paths

They provide early color in rock gardens, borders, or scattered in the garden or along woodland paths. Crocus come in several colors. King of the striped is a white striped with blue. Purpura grandiflora is purple and among whites are Snowstorm, Remberance and Mont Blanc.

Do not disturb…

After flowering, crocus should not be disturbed. Leave them alone and allow the foliage to mature and go through all its life cycle. Once the leaves have browned they may be cut away. Crocus are among the longer lasting bulbs that the gardener can plant.

They will provide many years of interest if you start out with quality bulbs, plant them correctly, and allow them to go undisturbed.

For more information on early flowers, contact your local county Extension office.