Everything you need to know about crocus bulbs

When should crocus bulbs be planted?
Crocus bulbs are autumn planted, so you should aim to plant them from early September to November.

Do crocus bulbs come back every year?
Crocuses are perennial, which means they will bloom again every spring. They are also great at naturalising, so there’s a good chance they will multiply every year.

Should I soak crocus bulbs before planting?
You don’t have to soak the bulbs, but doing so can help them sprout faster if you are planting them late. If that’s the case, soak them overnight or for up to 24 hours.

What month do crocuses bloom?
Crocuses can bloom from late winter to early spring, depending on the area. The flowers hold up for about 3 weeks on average.

What are the bulbs of crocus flowers called?
Another name crocus bulbs are known by is corms.

Do I leave crocus bulbs in the ground?
Most hardy bulbs do better when left in the ground, but if the soil does not drain well, the bulbs could rot. To ensure longevity, you can dig up and store crocus bulbs until the next planting season.

Do crocus spread by themselves?
As a naturalising plant, crocuses can easily spread by themselves. It is also possible to divide and spread them yourself as well if desired, by digging up and moving the bulbs.

Do crocus like sun or shade?
Crocuses do well when they are planted in full sun or partial shade.

How long do crocus bulbs last?
With proper care, nutrients and good soil, crocus bulbs can thrive for up to 5 years.

What animal eats crocus flowers?
Squirrels are the most likely animal to munch on crocus. They could dig up and eat your bulbs, so make sure to plant them at the right depth and protect your flower bed with mesh or chicken wire.

How do I keep squirrels from eating my crocus?
The most effective protection from squirrels and other animals is a mesh or wire covering over the flower bed.

Do coffee grounds keep squirrels away?
Deterring squirrels with coffee grounds is possible, but not very efficient, as you would need to keep topping up the coffee grounds.

Can I plant crocus in pots?
Yes, you can plant crocus in pots indoors or outdoors. Choose well draining containers and place them in a spot with partial shade or full sun.

Can I plant crocus in February?
It is possible, but the flowers might not bloom as nicely or last as long as earlier planted bulbs.

Can I plant crocus in my lawn?
Not all crocuses will do well in the lawn, and not all lawn is suitable for crocuses. They are more likely to bloom in a lawn that is in partial shade, or under trees.

How deep do crocus bulbs need to be planted
Plant your crocus bulbs 2 to 3 inches deep, and space them about 3 inches apart.

Which way do you plant crocus bulbs?
The upright way to plant a crocus bulb is with the pointed tip facing up.

Should you deadhead crocus?
There is no need to deadhead crocus. You should leave the foliage on until it’s completely dried out.

How do you look after crocuses?
Make sure they are planted in well draining soil, and water them regularly.

What can I plant with crocuses?
You can plant them with any other autumn planted bulbs, such as tulips and hyacinths.

Why did my crocus not come up?
There are a few reasons your crocus flowers are not coming up. Among others, it could be due to incorrect planting depth, soil that doesn’t drain well, or because of weather conditions.

How long does it take for crocus to grow?
It takes approximately 4 months for the flowers to bloom.

Will crocus survive snow?
Established crocus flowers can survive snow. Newly formed buds might not be as resilient though.

Do I need to water crocus bulbs?
Yes, but wait until the soil is dry to water them again. Overwatering can cause the bulbs to rot.

Can I plant crocus in spring?
Crocus bulbs need to be planted in autumn. We would not recommend planting them in spring.

Can I plant crocus in November?
Yes , November is a great time to plant crocus bulbs.

Will dried out bulbs grow?
No, if the bulb is dry it’s best to discard it.

How late is too late to plant crocus bulbs?
Once the first frost has started, it is too late to plant them.

Are crocus poisonous to dogs?
Yes, some crocus can be very dangerous for dogs if ingested. It’s best to keep them away.

How big do crocuses grow?
Crocus flowers grow to around 5 inches tall.

What do crocus flowers smell like?
Most crocuses do not have a smell, although some varieties can be fragrant.

Do all crocuses have saffron?
Only the Crocus Sativus, also known as Saffron Crocus, is able to produce saffron. Each bulb of Crocus Sativus produces one flower, and each flower gives you 3 stigmas of saffron.

What is the difference between crocus and saffron?
A crocus is the flower produced from corms, or commonly crocus bulbs. Saffron is a rare and popular spice, made from the dried flower stigmas of the specific Crocus Sativus variety.

Which crocus is edible?
Crocus Sativus, also known as autumn crocus or saffron crocus, is the only variety that produces an edible part.

What colour do crocuses come in?
Crocuses are bright spring blooming flowers, and you can find them in shades of blue, purple, orange and yellow, and even white.

Can you reuse crocus bulbs?
Crocus bulbs that get plenty of warmth and sunshine can bulk up over time, making them suitable for dividing and reusing. If you do want to reuse your corms, wait for about six weeks after flowering to dig them up, divide and replant them.

Can you leave bulbs in the ground all year?
You can, but you should make sure the soil is still well draining, otherwise the bulbs can become soaked and start to rot.