The Best Crocus for Naturalising: A Comprehensive Guide

Oleh Anonymous August 22, 2023 Post a Comment

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Crocuses are beautiful, delicate flowers that bloom in the springtime. They come in a range of colors and are a popular choice for gardeners who want to add color to their outdoor spaces. In this guide, we will discuss the best crocus varieties for naturalising, which means they will come back year after year without requiring replanting.

Why Choose Crocuses?

Crocuses are an excellent choice for naturalising because they are hardy and easy to grow. Once planted, they will continue to bloom year after year, adding beauty to your garden without much effort on your part. They are also early bloomers, often appearing when other plants are still dormant, making them a welcome sight after a long winter.

The Best Crocus Varieties for Naturalising

There are many different types of crocuses, but not all of them are suitable for naturalising. Here are some of the best varieties to consider:

1. Crocus Tommasinianus

Also known as Tommies, these crocuses are one of the earliest to bloom, often appearing in late winter. They have delicate, purple flowers with white centers and are perfect for planting in large drifts. They're also deer-resistant, making them an excellent choice for gardens where deer are a problem.

Planting Tips

Tommies prefer well-draining soil and should be planted in full sun or partial shade. Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep and 2-3 inches apart.

2. Crocus Chrysanthus 'Cream Beauty'

This variety has creamy-yellow flowers with darker yellow centers and is a great choice for naturalising in rock gardens or at the front of borders. They bloom early in the season and will often continue to bloom through April.

Planting Tips

Crocus chrysanthus prefers well-draining soil and should be planted in full sun. Plant bulbs 3-4 inches deep and 2-3 inches apart.

3. Crocus Sativus

Also known as Saffron Crocus, this variety is prized for its use in cooking. The flowers are a beautiful shade of lavender and have bright orange stigmas that are used to make saffron spice.

Planting Tips

Saffron crocus prefers well-draining soil and should be planted in full sun. Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart.

4. Crocus Vernus 'Pickwick'

This variety has large, striped flowers in shades of purple and white. They bloom later in the season than some other varieties, making them a good choice for extending the blooming period in your garden.

Planting Tips

Crocus vernus prefers well-draining soil and should be planted in full sun or partial shade. Plant bulbs 4-6 inches deep and 2-3 inches apart.

5. Crocus biflorus

This variety is native to Turkey and has delicate, lilac-colored flowers with yellow centers. They are particularly hardy and can withstand cold temperatures and harsh weather conditions.

Planting Tips

Crocus biflorus prefers well-draining soil and should be planted in full sun or partial shade. Plant bulbs 3-4 inches deep and 2-3 inches apart.

How to Plant Crocus Bulbs

Planting crocus bulbs is relatively easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some tips for planting crocuses:

1. Choose the Right Location

Crocuses prefer well-draining soil and should be planted in full sun or partial shade. They can also be planted in rock gardens or under trees.

2. Prepare the Soil

Before planting, make sure the soil is well-draining and free of rocks and debris. You can add organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve the soil quality.

3. Plant the Bulbs

Dig a hole that is 4-6 inches deep and place the bulb in the hole with the pointed end facing up. Cover the bulb with soil and water thoroughly.

4. Protect from Pests

Crocuses are often eaten by rodents like squirrels and mice. To protect your bulbs, you can cover them with wire mesh or use repellents like garlic spray.

Tips for Maintaining Your Crocus Garden

Once your crocuses are planted, they require very little maintenance. Here are a few tips to keep them looking their best:

1. Water Sparingly

Crocuses don't need a lot of water, especially once they are established. Water sparingly, only when the soil is dry to the touch.

2. Deadhead Spent Flowers

To encourage continued blooming, deadhead spent flowers as soon as they begin to fade.

3. Don't Cut the Leaves

After the flowers have faded, the leaves will continue to grow for a few weeks. Don't cut them off, as they need to photosynthesize to provide energy for next year's blooms.

4. Fertilize if Necessary

Crocuses don't usually require fertilizer, but if you notice that they are not blooming well, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the fall.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should I plant crocus bulbs?

Crocus bulbs should be planted in the fall, usually between September and November.

2. How deep should I plant crocus bulbs?

Crocus bulbs should be planted 3-6 inches deep, depending on the variety.

3. How long do crocuses bloom?

Crocuses typically bloom for 2-3 weeks, depending on the weather.

4. Do crocuses spread?

Yes, crocuses will naturalise and spread over time, creating a beautiful carpet of flowers.

5. Can I plant crocuses in containers?

Yes, crocuses can be planted in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.

Crocuses are a wonderful addition to any garden, and with the right care, they will come back year after year, providing beauty and color in the early spring. By choosing the right varieties and following proper planting and care techniques, you can create a stunning naturalised crocus garden that will bring joy for years to come.