Crocus Planting: The Classic in the Spring Bed

After the dark winter, the crocus is one of the first flowers to announce the approaching spring. This early bloomer is a classic in the flower bed. Plant crocuses in autumn.

He is small, but anything but inconspicuous. Whether brightly mixed or as a monochromatic sea of blossoms – the crocus is not to be overlooked. Its vibrant colors not only lure spring into the land but transport it directly into the heart.

There are about 80 species and numerous varieties. Even though some varieties bloom in autumn, the crocus is primarily known as a spring flower. As such, it is planted in the garden in autumn. The best planting time for the flower bulb is between September and October. This usually results in small or larger groups. Entire carpets of blossoms in one color look particularly beautiful. You can get the luxury of a bulb collection in just one shade from specialized retailers. But a colorful mix of the crocus's various colors – from white to yellow to purple – is also an eye-catcher. Usually, the flower bulbs have not yet sprouted when they are planted. However, initial root formation is not a problem. On the contrary: you can clearly see which end of the bulb is the bottom.

Crocuses prefer it rather dry and sunny. If the garden soil is compacted and there's a risk of waterlogging, it's better to loosen it with some sand. The corms are then planted 3 to 5 centimeters deep with the tip facing upwards. To create that colorful sea of blossoms, you don't need more than a corm's width of space between the flowers. At 15 centimeters, they won't get in each other's way. With early-blooming crocuses, you first see the foliage and then the bloom. It appears from February, at the latest in March. Crocuses can also be excellently naturalized in lawns. Alongside winter aconites and snowdrops, they cut a good figure there.

You don't need to care for crocuses. In spring, the soil should be a bit moister; if necessary, you'll have to help out. However, watering is generally not necessary. Crocuses bloom anew every year and can even propagate themselves via so-called cormlets or seeds. Naturally propagated plants, however, only bloom after years. If you have planted crocuses in the lawn, you must not mow those areas until the leaves turn yellow. Only then are the plants fully developed and have collected enough reserves for the next year's bloom. By cutting too early, you harm the plants, and they may not sprout anew next year. Once the crocuses have withered, you can safely extend lawn care to the entire area.