Plant crocus bulbs in fall, 3–4 inches deep and about 3 inches apart, in sun or part shade with good drainage. They are among the first flowers of spring.
When to plant
Fall. October in most northern gardens, November in the South. Saffron crocus goes in as early as possible, August or early September
Depth
3–4 inches; saffron crocus about 6 inches
Spacing
About 3 inches apart
Sun
Full sun to part shade; fine under deciduous trees that leaf out after bloom
Water
Water in after planting; don't overwater
Soil
Well-drained; standing water rots the bulbs
Step by step
Pick a spot in full sun or light shade where water never stands. Lawns, borders and the ground under deciduous trees all work, since crocus bloom before the trees leaf out.
Dig holes or a shallow trench 3–4 inches deep.
Set the bulbs with the pointed tip up, about 3 inches apart. For a carpet of color, plant them in generous groups rather than single rows.
Cover, firm the soil, and water well to settle the soil and start root growth.
Spread a 2-inch layer of mulch to hold moisture and keep the bulbs cool.
In spring, let the leaves stay until they have yellowed and withered on their own, since that is how the bulbs rebuild for next year.
After bloom
Leave the foliage until it has yellowed and withered, even if it looks untidy, and don't mow a crocus lawn until then. The leaves rebuild the bulb for next spring. After that, there's nothing to do. Left undisturbed, crocus multiply and the planting gets fuller each year.
