How to Plant Crocuses

Crocuses are among the earliest spring-blooming bulbs, often popping up through snow in cold-winter areas. Here's how to plant crocus bulbs so your garden is the first to announce the coming of spring.

Things You'll Need

• Bulb Fertilizers
• Bulb Planters
• Flower Bulbs
• Garden Hoses
• Garden Trowels
• Shovels

Instructions

1. Select varieties and types by flower color, form and bloom time.

2. Purchase high-quality bulbs, free of bruises or soft spots.

3. Arrange for delivery, or make your purchase, so you can plant in fall.

4. Select a sunny planting location.

5. Prepare the soil, if necessary, by incorporating ample organic matter. Soil preparation is not always necessary if drainage is good.

6. Dig holes 2 to 3 inches deep. If you are planting a lot of crocuses, dig shallow trenches. Leave 2 to 4 inches between bulbs.

7. Add bulb fertilizer to the bottom of the hole and roughly mix it into the soil.

8. Place the crocus bulb in the hole, pointed side up, root side down. The bottom of the bulb should rest firmly on the bottom of the hole.

9. Water the bulbs thoroughly.

Tips & Warnings

• Crocuses can be planted under many deciduous trees. They will bloom before the trees leaf out and shade the planting area.

• There are many helpful tools specifically designed for planting bulbs. Some make perfect holes by removing small cylinders of soil. An auger-like tool can be attached to electric drills. Bulb planters are particularly useful when planting a lot of bulbs.

• There are several species of crocuses to choose from, varying in color, flower form and time of bloom. Most bloom very early in spring.

• Crocuses are easy to grow in small pots.

• Plant crocuses in front of beds and near walkways where they can be seen.

• Avoid buying bargain bulbs; they often disappoint.