Crocus

Crocus flowers are one of the first telltale signs of spring. Brightly hued spring varieties start emerging from the ground in late winter and early spring, usually before anything else flowers. When planted in mass, crocuses make a brilliant show of color, with a wide variety of colors to choose from, including white, yellow, blue, purple, and bi-colored varieties.

When to plant crocus bulbs: Crocuses grow from corms (i.e. bulb-like structures) and should be planted in the fall before the ground freezes. Aim for planting them about 6 to 8 weeks before your first expected frost date. This allows the bulbs to establish roots before winter sets in and ensures they are ready to bloom in early spring.

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Plant your crocus bulbs/corms in a sunny to partially shaded location, at a depth of about 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm).
Use well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter.
Dig individual holes for each crocus bulb/corm or prepare a larger area for mass planting.
After planting, give the area a thorough watering to settle the soil around the bulbs.
Apply a layer of mulch, such as shredded leaves or straw, over the planting area to help conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Water crocuses occasionally throughout the fall and spring if the weather is dry.
Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause crocus corms to rot.
Once the crocuses begin to emerge in spring, keep an eye out for any signs of pests or diseases. Deer, squirrels, and rodents may sometimes dig up or eat the bulbs, so take appropriate measures to protect them if necessary.