When to Plant Crocus Bulbs

Planting time for crocus bulbs depends on whether you're growing spring or autumn-flowering types. For spring crocuses, plant the bulbs in early autumn, ideally between September and November. This gives them enough time to establish roots before winter. Autumn-flowering crocuses, on the other hand, need to be planted earlier, usually in late summer, around July or August, so they can bloom before the cold sets in.

How to Grow Crocuses

Crocuses are easy to grow and well-suited to borders, lawns, containers or rockeries. They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun, although they can tolerate light shade. Once planted, they need minimal attention and will often naturalise, returning each year with little input. They are ideal for adding early colour and attracting pollinators at the very start of the growing season.

Autumn Crocus

Autumn crocuses are a different species to the more common spring-flowering types and need different planting times. Some autumn varieties, like Crocus speciosus, flower without foliage and can surprise gardeners by blooming almost as soon as they’re in the ground. Unlike spring crocuses, these are often less tolerant of poor drainage, so careful site selection is key. They offer a great way to extend colour in the garden beyond summer.

Where to Plant Crocuses

Crocuses prefer sunny spots with good drainage. In heavy or clay soils, it’s worth improving the area with grit or planting in raised beds or containers. In lawns, they can be naturalised by lifting small patches of turf, inserting bulbs, then replacing the turf. Avoid areas that become waterlogged in winter, as crocus bulbs are prone to rotting in damp conditions.

Crocus Varieties to Grow

There are many crocus varieties suited to different growing conditions and aesthetic preferences. Crocus vernus is one of the most popular spring types, known for its large, vibrant blooms. Crocus chrysanthus has smaller flowers but offers rich colour variations and earlier flowering. Crocus tommasinianus is a good choice for naturalising, especially in lawns. For autumn colour, Crocus speciosus and Crocus sativus — the saffron crocus — are notable varieties.

How to Plant Crocuses

Plant crocus bulbs about 7–10cm deep, with the pointed end facing upwards. In borders, spacing them around 5–10cm apart allows room for spread. In containers, they can be planted closer for a more compact display. The soil should be loosened and free-draining. If you're naturalising in grass, plant in random groupings to mimic how they grow in the wild.

How to Care for Crocuses

Crocuses need very little care once planted. Water only if the weather is dry at planting time, and avoid excessive moisture through winter. After flowering, allow the leaves to die back naturally, as this helps feed the bulbs for the following year. Avoid mowing naturalised crocuses in grass until their foliage has yellowed and died down.

How to Propagate Crocuses

Crocuses propagate naturally by producing small offsets around the main bulb. These can be lifted and separated after the foliage has died back in late spring or early summer. Replant immediately or store them in a cool, dry place until autumn. This method helps spread crocuses around the garden without buying new bulbs.

Common Issues with Planting Crocuses

Poor drainage is the most common issue when planting crocuses, often leading to rot. In lawns, overcompaction or waterlogging can cause bulbs to fail. Squirrels may dig up newly planted bulbs, especially in the first year. Using wire mesh over planting areas can help deter them. If crocuses don’t flower, it may be due to shallow planting, overcrowding, or cutting the foliage back too soon.

Are There Many Different Varieties

Yes, there are dozens of crocus species and hybrids, with flower colours ranging from white and yellow to deep purples and lilacs. Some are better suited for naturalising, while others are ideal for pots or alpine settings. Both spring and autumn-flowering types offer a wide range of choices for different styles and garden conditions, making crocuses a versatile and rewarding bulb to grow.

Making better decisions when planting crocus bulbs.

Spring-flowering crocuses, which are the most commonly grown, need to be planted while the soil is still warm enough for root growth but cool enough to avoid triggering early sprouting. That sweet spot usually falls between late September and early November. Planting too late, especially in cold or wet ground, can delay rooting or lead to bulb rot. If the bulbs don’t establish roots before winter, flowering may be weak or fail altogether.

For autumn-flowering crocuses, timing is tighter. They often go in the ground between July and August, which catches many gardeners off guard. These bulbs need to be planted quickly once bought, as they sometimes begin to grow in storage. Delay can result in missed blooms or stressed plants. Unlike spring crocuses, which lie dormant over summer, autumn varieties need an active growing period before winter sets in.

In areas with very wet or heavy soils, waiting too long into autumn can increase the risk of fungal issues. Crocus bulbs, especially autumn types, are sensitive to poor drainage, and planting in raised beds or containers can offer more control over the growing environment.

Another thing to consider is location planning. Crocuses bloom early in the year, often before many perennials have emerged, so choosing high-visibility spots like near paths, under deciduous trees, or around entrances makes the most of their impact. Since the flowers are relatively small, grouping them in clusters rather than spreading them thinly helps them stand out.

Crocuses also benefit from companion planting. Mixing them with snowdrops or early dwarf irises can extend the display and fill in gaps. These combinations can provide a longer visual interest and help pollinators early in the season when nectar sources are still scarce.