How to Take Care of a Crocus Plant
Crocus plants bloom early and produce colorful flowers that are close to the ground. They are very easy to care for and are a favorite among gardeners. A crocus will multiple easily because the flowers that fade and drop off will reseed and grow new plants. Crocuses do well in cold weather and should generally be planted in early August. They should be planted outdoors separately or in beds. The bright flowers will fit in anywhere and brighten any area of the yard. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Plant the crocus in a sandy, well-drained soil in a location where it will receive full sun or light shade. A 5-10-5 formula fertilizer can be mixed into the soil before planting. Plant the crocus 5 inches deep in the soil.
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Keep the soil moist but not overly damp. You can mist the plant during the warmer months. Avoid planting a crocus near annuals or other plants that require a lot of water, as too much moisture can cause rot in a crocus.
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Fertilize the crocus at the beginning of the growing season with a general-use slow-releasing fertilizer. Once a year is sufficient.
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In the colder months, place a layer of mulch or pine straw around the crocus. This should be removed as the weather gets warmer in later months.
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When new plants appear from reseeding, dig them up carefully and replant them. Space the plants 4 to 6 inches apart; bare patches will be filled quickly when new growth appears the next year.
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Tips & Warnings
If animals dig up the crocus bulbs, cover the bulbs with a wire mesh to prevent the animal getting through to the bulb.
A crocus can be grown indoors the first year, but will not bloom the next year if kept inside. Replant the crocus outdoors and it will bloom in no time.
If planting from a bulb, it should be kept in a dark cool area indoors until tips begin to appear. It should then be gradually introduced to brighter light before being placed outdoors.
Crocus can be easily confused with another plant called colchicum. Colchicum is poisonous, so be sure you are getting the correct plant.
Do not fertilize a crocus during blooming, as this will kill the blooms and discourage further blooming.
