Growing Crocuses: Early Spring Jewels for Garden and Home

Crocuses (iris family) are hardy perennials, 3–6 inches tall with yellow, purple, lavender, or white cup-shaped blooms. Most bloom spring; a few species flower in fall. Over 80 species exist; ~30 are commercially grown. The Dutch crocus (C. vernus) has the largest bloom. Early bloomers: C. chrysanthus, C. sieberi, C. tommasinianus (purple shades).

Outdoor Planting

Plant bulbs in fall (cool weather) in a protected, sunny, well-drained bed — away from squirrels, mice, rabbits. Depth: ½ inch. Mulch with grass clippings, leaves, straw. Water through winter in snowless areas; stop at first snowfall. Shoots appear at snowmelt or early spring.

Indoor Forcing

Pot immediately in small containers: gravel base, sterile soil to 1.5" from top. Plant pointed-end up, 1 inch apart. Water thoroughly, drain. Chill 6 weeks at 45–48°F (dark), checking weekly for roots at drainage holes. Once rooted, move to sunny room temperature. Blooms appear in ~3 weeks.

Indoors or out, crocuses brighten any space.